Sony To Launch Flash-Based Mini-Vaio

Sony plans to launch next month a flash-based version of the Vaio UX Micro PC, a full-function, pocket-size computer.

The UX Premium Micro PC would include the features of previous versions, such as an Intel Core Solo processor, wireless LAN and WAN access capabilities, a 4.5-inch touch screen, and a keyboard that slides out from behind. The main difference would be a 32-Gbyte flash memory drive, which means faster speeds for booting up and accessing programs as well as for storing data, according to Sony. In addition, flash memory uses less battery power than a spinning hard-disk drive.

The UX Premium Micro PC would be available in black and cost about $2,500. The computer would be available with Microsoft Windows Vista Basic.