REDMOND, Wash. — Dec. 18, 2012 — As 2012 comes to a close, a wave of new products have hit the market with vast potential to help companies increase efficiency and productivity in a variety of ways.
From phones to tablets to a new generation of all-in-ones and touch PCs, incredible new gadgets have been released to help companies take advantage of Windows 8. Between the new hardware innovations and new capabilities in Windows 8, companies have a great opportunity to help employees stay mobile, secure sensitive customer and business data, and increase overall productivity.
When it comes to helping employees be productive, few investments have more potential this year than a new PC with Windows 8 Pro. In addition to the beautiful, fast and fluid user interface, Windows 8 brings together the sites, people, apps and information that you care about most right from your personalized Start screen. It makes it easy to multitask and switch between screens, and it provides an incredible choice of new hardware to make for a compelling and highly personalized computing experience. Plus, hardware released for the new operating system is screaming fast.
This year there’s another bonus that could sweeten the deal: According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, companies in the U.S. may be able to take advantage of enhancements to the IRS Section 179 deduction on capital expenditures, which can allow them to fully deduct the cost of equipment such as computers and certain business software.
Sometimes success ultimately comes down to technology that “just works.” For the end of 2012, here’s a look at some new technology and hardware that might just be the best investment to help your company start the new year off strong.
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Acer ICONIA W510-1422
December 18, 2012
The Acer ICONIA W510-1422 is ultimate great Windows 8 tablet for work. Using it in conventional tablet mode, customers can navigate websites, games and more on the 10.1-inch touch screen. Customers can use it in productivity mode by connecting the keyboard dock to the tablet for optimal typing and to enjoy extended battery life of up to 18 hours. Viewing mode is enjoyed when the dock is rotated backward 295 degrees and used as a stand. Its slim size makes it great for watching video on a crowded plane seat, browsing Web pages or viewing presentations. The premier model comes standard with the keyboard for US$749.99. Additional models start at US$549.99.
ASUS VivoBook S400CA
December 18, 2012
The ASUS VivoBookS400CA expands all aspects of customer happiness and Windows 8 experiences on frameless touch panels, making the most of the new user interface. ASUS designers gave ASUS VivoBook a distinct look showcasing the flair and fun of Windows 8 while highlighting chic portability. Textured, metal-treated surfaces and an ergonomic edge design stand out, matching the dynamic nature of new, high-mobility, intuitive computing. Being ultra-light and extra-slim, ASUS VivoBook excels at making getting around easy.
Dell Vostro 3360
December 18, 2012
Power the ideas that power your business with the Dell Vostro 3360. Offering the performance and design for personal achievement with IT support and security features that enable any business to succeed, Dell’s slim, 13-inch laptop helps you be mobile, productive and secure. Pricing for the Vostro 3360 begins at US$649.
HP EliteBook Folio 9470m
December 18, 2012
The HP EliteBook Folio 9470m is an HP Ultrabook that provides a stylish, lightweight design without compromising its enterprise features. Measuring 14 inches diagonally and weighing just 3.6 pounds, the 19 millimeter-thin EliteBook Folio 9470m also offers all-day battery life and the option for a secondary battery that provides extended freedom from the power outlet, making it the ideal device for mobile professionals who spend a majority of time away from their desks. Adding to its flexibility, the EliteBook Folio 9470m offers an enterprise-grade array of key ports and connectivity options that deliver enhanced productivity to business users, including optional built-in 4G wireless WAN, full-sized Ethernet, VGA, DisplayPort and USB 3.0 connections.
Lenovo ThinkPad Twist
December 18, 2012
The Lenovo ThinkPad Twist makes it easy to choose one affordable device that can do it all. Use it as a full-performance Ultrabook and then twist the top to switch to a convertible tablet. The 12.5-inch ThinkPad Twist gives professionals the technologies they need for both their business and personal computing.
Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro 700T
December 18, 2012
Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro 700T can easily transform from a traditional clamshell PC to a tablet with just the click of a button, maximizing both productivity and mobility. Designed for Windows 8 with Samsung’s advanced engineering and a 10-point touch screen, users can easily stay connected and productive from everywhere. With a blazing-fast Intel Core i5 processor, the Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro 700T is a powerful PC designed for on-the-go professionals.
Sony VAIO Duo 11
December 18, 2012
It’s the best of both worlds: a full HD laptop and a touch-screen tablet. All in a compact, mobile design that’s ready from the word “go.” Write notes or draw with the digitizer stylus, and type an email or use your fingers to pinch, swipe and scroll your way through the Web. It is versatility redefined.
Toshiba Tecra R940
December 18, 2012
The 14-inch Toshiba Tecra R940 laptop delivers outstanding performance, thanks to a third-generation Intel Core processor and optional AMD graphics. Equipped with Toshiba’s EasyGuard Technology to help protect against accidental spills and bumps, this PC is also built with a fiberglass-reinforced casing with a honeycomb rib structure. Highly durable and reliable, yet it is only about 1 inch thin and has a starting weight of just 4.2 pounds.
VIZIO Notebook
December 18, 2012
The VIZIO Notebook featuring Windows 8 delivers remarkable power in a beautifully portable profile. Stylish and light, its aluminum construction provides solid durability not possible with cheaper plastics. Powerful third-generation Intel Core processors deliver lightning-fast performance while the Microsoft Signature experience offers the best way to get the most out of the entirely reimagined Windows 8. With an impressive 15.6-inch diagonal full HD display, premium SRS sound and a long-lasting battery, the VIZIO Notebook is an on-the-go powerhouse. Whether you’re kicking back or leaning in, the VIZIO Notebook’s unique combination of performance and aesthetics will keep you on the edge of your seat.