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Asus and Samsung are the first manufactures out of the block, promising support (eventually) in the form of the Asus R2H (pictured) and the Samsung Q1.

Base specifications provided by Microsoft, to qualify for the UMPC criteria, include running Windows XP Tablet PC Edition 2005 OS, having a 7in display (or smaller), with a minimum 800 x 480 resolution, being WiFi- and Bluetooth-enabled, having an integrated touch panel and weighing approximately 2 pounds.

The brief is to provide a portable 'all-in-one device' for maintaining connectivity on the go. The new 'Origami' ingredient in the Table PC mix is the incorporation of Microsoft's new Touch Pack software, created for UMPC devices. This is meant to optimise the touch screen user interface, making it more intuitive to browse and manage applications via an icon interface. Interaction is via touch, pen and dedicated buttons.

The machines will

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run on Intel Celeron M, Intel Pentium M or VIA C7-M processors. The R2H also includes a built-in high-resolution webcam, built-in GPS with retractable antennae and biometric (fingerprint) security technology. Full details of specifications, availability and pricing have not yet been made available, however.

'The R2H Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC) platform, one of the first UMPCs to come to market, is a result of combining Intel's low power technology leadership with Asus' expertise in delivering innovative platform solutions,' said Mr. Mooly Eden, general manager of Intel's Mobile Platforms Group. 'We are excited about working with Asus to enable the first generation of this exciting category - a PC companion that allow users to communicate, access information, be entertained and stay productive on the go.'

You can read more about Microsoft's vision for the UMPC on its website.

The Origami concept first emerged in February - Microsoft teases with Secret Project - via a cryptic website, displaying lines such as 'Hello, Do you know me? Do you know what I can do? or how i can change your life? You will...'

What are your thoughts on UMPC devices? Do they occupy a useful middle ground between traditional handheld devices and laptops, or are they just a new twist on the familiar Tablet PC concept, a technical solution in search of market? Leave a comment via the link below.