2006 has been a wonderful first year for ultra mobile PC (UMPC) systems. We started the spring with eager thoughts about carrying our information with us, a promise of a low entry price, and a fully-functional ink PC. While the product launch was eagerly watched, product was not available for immediate purchase. This kept people's nirvana-like interest alive until product actually shipped. Three companies shipped product and the reviews were less than stellar. TabletKiosk shipped their UMPC with the VIA chipset, while Samsung started with the Intel chipset and shifted the Q1b to a VIA chipset, and finally ASUS shipped their UMPC with software features unique to a growing market.
Debates near the beginning of the UMPC release cycle wondered about the definition of the UMPC. Microsoft loosely defined their UMPC ideas and Intel defined the UMPC a different way. So, why not let others in on the action, too? Actually, many people would love to have seen the cool looking UMPC from Intel. A clear definition of an ultra mobile PC remains allusive but UMPC Buzz maintains UMPCs are systems and not devices. Devices have a singular purpose, whereas a system is a fully-functional PC. In May 2006, we defined the smaller screen sized units from OQO and others as Small Form Factor PCs (SFF) to help consumers avoid confusion. UMPC Buzz suggests an Ultra Mobile PC is a system with ink recognition as central to the input, touch screen for easy navigation, and numerous connection options to the Internet. We support Linux efforts as well as other alternative means.
Poor Reviews
Reviewers were not sure how to discuss the UMPC. Was this a fully-functional PC or a large PDA? The confusion led to some interesting thoughts. For example, some people thought a keyboard should be included. Regardless, the biggest complaints involved battery life, low performance, and screen resolutions. Despite any negative press, the interest in the UMPC remained very strong throughout the year.
The Look Alikes
Besides the big boys talking about UMPCs, there were plenty of look alike and wanna-be UMPC devices "leaked" onto websites and these "leaks" were central to growing market interest of the UMPC. We even ended the year with posts about HTC and Tatung entering the market with hardware using Windows Mobile rather than Windows XP Tablet PC Edition. The more the merrier. Outlook for 2007
Hopes for 2007 center on a touch pack for the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system and newer hardware which will allow for faster processors, longer battery life, and hard drive space rivaling a notebook. Let's also hope for more software taking advantage of the ink. Will consumers be satisfied? Will reviewers be satisfied? Not unless the price is right and the weight is low.
Will there be a Dell and/or Apple UMPC?
Absolutely. Dell has lost much of its luster this year because the company failed to follow the directions of the technology market. Tablet PCs and UMPCs are the wave of future technology. Failure to embrace this technology will lead to a loss of market share. Look forward to reviews on Dell and Apple Tablet PCs as well as smaller screen sized UMPCs.
Essential UMPC Accessories
(1) For the greatest access to your data, add an EVDO Rev A. USB device. The Ovation U720 is a perfect addition to your mobility. Check Slashgear for an exclusive overview.
(2) Besides the data access, comfort with a stylus is vital. Check out the GottaBeMobile InkShow on pens and styluses.
(3) Extended batteries are very important to carry with you. Manufacturers have batteries available. In addition, there are third party products now available. For example, ASUS R2H users may consider the ProPortable Battery for $149.

(4) Car adapter: When you are driving, simply plug your UMPC into the Belkin AC Anywhere and let the batteries recharge.

(5) Treat yourself to the best in earpieces, too. Etymotic Research is the leader and the quality is well worth the purchase price. Spoil yourself because you deserve the best.
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