News - Acer Aspire R7 “Star Trek” convertible laptop PC revealed

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Also Acer shows off the Acer Aspire P3 Ultrabook convertible.

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I havent seen the Star Trek teaser video in question, but can only imagine that a 22nd centuary-set sci-fi film and a 2013-laptop together can only end badly.

I got little nervous about that touchpad, I think this is the first laptop ever with a touchpad top of the keyboard. I somewhat wish the touchpad would be at the bottom of the keyboard then I'm all set!

The touchpad at the top initially made me think "design compromise" but on reflection I don't think it's that bad. If you're using your laptop is full on "power mode" i.e. conventional laptop mode, then you'll probably be at a desk or on a surface at least. This means using a mouse will be entirely possible, as most worktop bound laptop are used anyway. The 2nd mode is ideal for "on the move" use - i.e. commuting, on the train, or plane. You've got limited depth so this mode reduces overall depth, brings the screen closer for comfortable use of touch functionality and still gives access to the keyboard. This could be a very useful mode for productivity on the move. The Pad mode is obviously for consumption mainly. The 4th mode offers a great option to showcase examples etc in meetings without continuously swinging the laptop and associated power cable etc around constantly.

Overall I think it's great design solution, while the trackpad at the top seems silly, when you consider the most common useage scenarios it doesn't seem too much of a compromise IMO.

Like it or not... finally the traditional "PC companies" are starting to actually DESIGN desirable devices!

I like the look of the P3, but why the really low screen resolution?