News & Reviews:   Intel Windows Tablet

A while back, Microsoft said that we'd be seeing $100 (RM365) Windows 8 tablets before long and it appears that they are already here. Granted, the more well known HP Stream 7 which was recently offered for $79 (RM288) is only available at the Microsoft US store. However, a quick search at mobile market sites like Lelong.com.my and others reveal Windows 8.1 tablets being sold for as low as RM320. Yes, these are unheard of brands like Pipo and Cube or even Ainol but the tech specs are nothing to sneeze at. These include a 64-bit Intel Atom processor, 1GB of RAM, 16GB storage and features like a 1-year free subscription of Office 365. Be warned though, these are devices brought in without any international warranty but those looking for a more affordable computing tablet could give such devices a go. Build quality could also be suspect but you do get what you pay for. Still no chances for a RM100 Windows tablet yet, but there could still be hope for the HP Stream 7 to come to Malaysia eventually. In related news, Intel Malaysia are pushing various Malaysian-based Intel powered tablets at slightly higher pricing and local warranty with the latest being the iPro LivePad 8.9 tablet at RM699.