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CES 2009: OQO's Model 2+ Impresses

OQO, which has been making small, fully functional Windows machines for years, debuted its latest hardware, the model 2+. Key improvements include a much faster Intel Atom processor, an OLED display, and worldwide 3G wireless data capabilities.

Here is the quick lowdown:

OQO today announced the new model 2+ with Intel Atom processor, the world's first PC OLED display, and worldwide 3G capability. Based on the 1.86-GHz Intel Atom processor and 2 GB RAM, the OQO model 2+ offers performance up to twice as fast as its predecessor and includes an embedded touchscreen for easier input. For mobile professionals who need to work on the go, the model 2+ features Qualcomm's Gobi global mobile Internet solution, which supports both of the world's leading 3G cellular standards. These new features enable users to access their enterprise networks, business productivity applications, and the full Internet around the world. The OQO model 2+ will be available in the first half of 2009 with pricing starting at $999.

The speed was noticeably improved. I've tested a number of OQO devices over the years and always found them on the slow side. Not the model 2+. By upping the RAM to 2 GB and using the Intel Atom processor, OQO has really boosted the performance of the model 2+.

It may be a bit chunky, but still weighs in at about one pound. The slide-out QWERTY keyboard works very well for composing messages and I found it to be comfortable to use.

Hard drives available are 80 GB and 160 GB, and battery life rates 3.5 hours with the standard battery and 7 hours with a high-capacity battery.

The model 2+ uses Qualcomm's Gobi 3G chip, which can be configured via software to work with any wireless data network in the world. That's some serious connectivity power for the traveling professional.

The model 2+ may not do everything that fully featured laptops or netbooks can do, but it is much more portable, and can fit into a large coat pocket. Sony and HP's new models can't do that.

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