Microsoft has just announced a Windows 8.1 computer the size of a USB stick. The new device is called Splendo and has been made in collaboration with Indian electronics manufacturer Iball, and it will cost just $140.
The hardware of the device consists of a quad-core Intel Atom processor, with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of built-in memory. The Splendo is essentially a pocket-sized laptop, which also has an HDMI port for connecting to any smart TV or monitor. It also has a high definition graphics card, a multi-channel digital sound card, a microSDXC card slot, supports Bluetooth 4.0, and the package includes a wireless keyboard and mouse.
Vineet Durani, Director, Windows Business Group, Microsoft India, said, “Splendo is for people who love electronic devices and want to be connected to the internet all the time. These users are tech-savvy, love gadgets, social networking, surfing the internet and want to enjoy the TV experience that smart TVs offer.”
However, Microsoft is a bit late to the party, as Google has already released the Cotton Candy microcomputer since April. Although the Cotton Candy has weaker hardware (1 GB RAM, dual-core processor and lack of internal memory), it has an advantage over the Splendo in the choice of operating system (Android or Linux).
All that remains to be seen is whether Splendo will support Windows 10 in the future, as well as how popular it will be with the consumer audience.
