VAIO

Sony VAIO SE Price Drop Gives You 15-inch 1080p Screen for $999

by Sohrab Osati | Oct 4, 2011 | 16 comments

Really hope that you haven’t pulled the trigger on the recently price dropped VAIO SA and SB that we told you about yesterday because Sony has another price drop for you. The VAIO SE is now joining the party of being priced like the VAIO SA at just $999. The recent price drop gives you plenty of bang for your buck while those who want more can always upgrade their RAM, processor speed and built in drives to include Blu-ray. The Sony VAIO SE now comes with the following as standard features for $999:

15.5-inch screen
1920 x 1080 display resolution
Intel Core i5-2430M processor (2.40GHz / 3.00GHz with Turbo Boost)
AMD Radeon HD 6470M (512MB) hybrid graphics
4GB (4GB fixed onboard + 1 open SDRAM slot) DDR3-SDRAM-1333
500GB hard drive

Sony Lowers Price of VAIO SA and SB to Under $1,000

by Sohrab Osati | Oct 3, 2011 | 23 comments

If the recent speed bumps to the VAIO S series wasn’t enough of an incentive for you to buy a VAIO, maybe a price drop will. Sony has just announced that their 13-inch VAIO SA series will be dropping in price from $1,250 MSRP to $ just $999 while the entry version, the VAIO SB, will now be priced at $799. Just as a recap, the standard VAIO SA includes:

13.3-inch screen
1600 x 900 display resolution
Intel Core i5-2430M processor (2.40GHz / 3.00GHz with Turbo Boost)
AMD Radeon HD 6630M (1GB) hybrid graphics
4GB (4GB fixed onboard + 1 open SDRAM slot) DDR3-SDRAM-1333
500GB hard drive
HD webcam
Fingerprint reader

The VAIO SB includes:

13.3-inch screen
1366 x 768 display resolution
Intel Core i3-2310M processor (2.10GHz)
AMD Radeon HD 6470M (512MB) hybrid graphics
4GB (4GBx1) DDR3-SDRAM-1333
320GB hard drive

Both variations are also highly customizable with features like solid state drive, Blu-ray player/burner, up to 8GB RAM and upgraded processors like the Intel i7.

[Via Sony]

Watch the Sony VAIO Z Be Taken Apart by a Sony Engineer (video)

by Sohrab Osati | Sep 10, 2011 | 22 comments

With the new VAIO Z launch, Sony decided to change and redesign the laptop series from scratch. A new, thinner, and sturdier housing will acompany the notebook’s ultra powerful 2.7GHz Intel Core i7 Processor (with Turbo Boost up to 3.40GHz). Other standouts include the 256GB SSD, 8GB RAM and 1600 x 900 resolution which are usually specs you would expect on a desktop. Still, what made the new VAIO Z shine was the addition of a Thunderbolt port which would connect the laptop to the Power Media Dock, giving it a boost with an AMD Radeon 6650M GPU with 1GB of dedicated memory and Blu-ray burner, to name a few of the benefits. With so much power and technology, what does the inners of this notebook look like? A Sony engineer decided to show us exactly whats inside of this power and portable notebook.

After the jump, watch the laptop be put together from memory!

Sony Adds Glasses-Free 3D to Notebooks with Lenticular Sheet

by Sohrab Osati | Sep 8, 2011 | 19 comments

Sony has been one of the biggest supporters of 3D and has featured the technology in every one of the company’s vast product lines. The notebook line is no different, and Sony already provides a 3D VAIO with the F series but that price point ($1,899) is set above what many may want to pay for a laptop. To be fair, with a Intel i7 3.30GHz processor, 16″ Full HD 2D/3D display, 6GB RAM, 640GB (7200rpm) HDD, Blu-ray player, NVIDIA graphics (1GB VRAM) with HDMI out, that laptop would have been expensive without 3D. Enter the new lenticular sheet from Sony, designed to accommodate the VAIO VPC-SE1Z9E (S series) which has the users attaching the lenticular sheet in front of the S Series 15.5-inch LCD screen. With the screen in place, a 3D image is then formed on your non-3D LCD display.

The naked-eye 3D display is realized based on the lenticular method, which creates parallax by arraying lenses that are thin and long and have a semicircular cross section.

The sheet itself is also accompanied by a software which will utilize your notebook’s webcam to track your head movement and adjust the 3D effects accordingly. This 129 euro (approx US$183) is expected to be available next month and will again break down the 3D entry price point by a wide margin. After the jump, a picture of the lenticular sheet.

Sony VAIO S Notebooks Get a Speed Bump

by Sohrab Osati | Sep 5, 2011 | 104 comments

If you’re in the market for a 13-inch notebook and are looking at the $1,000 price point, Sony would like you to take another look at their VAIO S lineup. The series, which weighs just under four pounds, is receiving a mild update from Sony that leaves most of the hardware without change with the exception of the processor. So, you should expect the same base 4GB RAM, HD screen, and Blu-ray drive with newer versions of the Intel i3s, i5s and i7s processor that equal a slightly faster computer with slightly better battery lifetime. The Sony VAIO S Notebook refresh will be available on October 2nd. After the jump, the official press release and additional pictures.

Interview with VAIO Z Designers (video)

by Sohrab Osati | Jul 14, 2011 | 24 comments

Apple has proven over and over again that advancement in technology simply cannot be increased power and hard drive offerings. Instead, technology should also be based on design, and good design should keep technology in mind. Of all the PC manufacturers, I see Sony follow the same design. While HP, Toshiba and Dell give you big hunks of plastic, Sony tends to take the above philosophy into consideration when releasing their new products. This is especially evident in their upcoming S1 and S2 tablets, as well as the recently announced VAIO Z (VPC-Z21V9). The interview, which can be found after the jump, will take you into the mindset of the team behind the VAIO Z, and what they consider when it comes to designing a flagship Sony VAIO.

Sony Announces the VAIO VPC-Z21V9E, Ultra Slim, External GPU with Power Media Dock. We Have Specs

by Sohrab Osati | Jun 28, 2011 | 39 comments

Sony has just announced and revealed to the world the rumored VAIO Z21, previously called the Ultimate Mobile PC. The VAIO VPC-Z21V9E, which is the proper model number, was unveiled earlier today or late last night, depending on when you read this, with many of the rumored specs that we had reported on previously and some surprises that we only hinted at. This ultra-slim 13.1-inch VAIO, which comes in at 1.2 kg (2.6 pounds), is designed for the users on the go, giving you a standard 6-hour battery and an optional 14-hour sheet battery. Even with the ever-so-thin design, the VAIP Z21 still packs a punch, and unlike other laptops in its range, for instance the MacBook Air, is no slouch! Some specs include:

2.7GHz Intel Core i7 Processor (with Turbo Boost up to 3.40GHz)
256GB SSD
8GB RAM
1600 x 900 Resolution
Intel’s HD Graphics 3000
WLAN 802.11a/b/g/n
3G WWAN
Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR
HDMI Out (3D support)
HD web camera powered by ‘Exmor’ (1.3 effective megapixels)
(1) USB 2.0
Windows 7 Professional (64bit)
Finger print reader

Now, if the integrated graphics card and resolution of 1600 x 900 just don’t cut it for you, then you are in luck. Users will be given the option to upgrade the screen to full HD, meaning 1920 by 1080 to enjoy full 1080p on their VAIO and even export out 1080p 3D footage via the HDMI out port. If any of you read our previous coverage of the VAIO Z21, then you will know that our story hinted towards the following and now we can confirm it. You see, for those who require a little more power and ports from their VAIO, Sony has built a great solution for you called the Power Media Dock (VGP-PRZ20C). When in need of additional power, users can simply connect their VAIO to the Power Media Dock and receive a boost of power, via the units built in AMD Radeon 6650M GPU with 1GB of dedicated memory. This connection is made thanks to the Power Media Dock’s “light peak” aka Thunderbolt connector cable.

Hit the jump for the dock’s additional specs, official press release and pictures.

Sony VAIO Z21 Leaked! Previously Dubbed Ultimate Mobile PC (pics) (updated)

by Sohrab Osati | Jun 25, 2011 | 21 comments

With Tuesday, June 28th, pegged as the official unveil date, we can now share with you some pictures of Sony’s upcoming flagship VAIO Z21 which was previously dubbed and teased as the Ultimate Mobile PC. Though we don’t have all the official specs yet from this 13-inch laptop, we can confirm that it will be available in black and gold and carry an external Blu-ray drive (much like the MacBook Air, plus the Blu-ray capability). Also much like the current MacBook Pro and MacBook Air lineup, the VAIO Z21 will use a glass trackpad and backlit keyboard. Additional specs include (though these are not 100% confirmed yet):

Core i5-2410M processor or Core i7-2620M CPU
128GB of solid-state storage or 256GB in storage
1600 x 900 resolution is standard
3G SIM card slot
Fingerprint reader
3D output via HDMI
HD webcam with Sony’s Exmor imaging technology
Thunderbolt via USB connector

We will hopefully have more for you soon, including price and release date. Till then, hit the jump for some additional pictures and while you’re there, let us know what you think about the new VAIO Z21. Is it as you imagined?

Thanks to our tipster Aigak

Update:

Some sites are even reporting that the external drive packs a separate GPU, allowing you to be mobile when needed and while docked, receiving some extra horsepower. Although an interesting idea and concept, I wouldn’t put too much stock into that.

Read More ›

Sony Compares VAIO S Against the MacBook Pro (Video)

by Sohrab Osati | Jun 24, 2011 | 14 comments

Sony is gearing up for Back to School time in more than one way. First, they’ve released a few new colors for the VAIO C lineup while giving the VAIO E a few new processor options. With a video that’s sure to start a heated debate, Sony is taking the campaign to the next level by putting the VAIO S up against the MacBook Pro in a head-to-head comparison. Full disclosure, I worked for the fruit company for nearly 3 years before leaving and becoming an independent consultant for them.

So what do you think? Would you chose the Sony VAIO S over the MacBook Pro?

Sony Updates VAIO C with New Colors

by Sohrab Osati | Jun 21, 2011 | 20 comments

Hot on the heels of updating the VAIO E series, Sony is also updating the VAIO C series as well. Unlike the E series, which saw a big shift in the processing department, the VAIO C instead will get two new colors added to the lineup. Now VAIO C owners can choose from Neon Red and Thunder Blue, in addition to the already available Neon Green and Neon Orange. Still, don’t be disappointed, seeing how as the 14-inch and 15.5-inch VAIO C lineup already offers:

Intel Core i5 processor
Intel Core i3 processor
Intel WiDi (which allows you to share your laptop content wirelessly on your HDTV)
Backlit Keyboard
Webcam & Microphone with Exmor sensor technology

The new colors will be available for pre-order now and start at $730. As always, hit the jump for the official press release. and additional pictures.

Sony Updates VAIO E Series With Intel Sandy Bridge Processor, New Colors. We Have Specs

by Sohrab Osati | Jun 16, 2011 | 28 comments

Just in time for the Summer and the slow beginning of back-to-school shopping, Sony has updated their VAIO E series with new colors and the ever powerful and efficient Sandy Bridge processor. The E series which is available in 14-, 15.5-, and 17.3-inch will give buyers the option between the latest Core i3 and i5s processors. Those who prefer the AMD round will also be given the option to select the AMD Fusion as a processor on the 15.5-inch model. Both the 14-inch and 15-inch variation will be available in midnight blue, glacier white, charcoal black and blush pink – while the 17.3-inch model comes in charcoal black and glacier white. The VAIO E series will be available on June 19th with a starting price of $550. Hit the jump for some more noteworthy specs, as well as additional pictures and an official press release.

Sony Announces New Ultraportable VAIO SA

by Sohrab Osati | May 26, 2011 | 23 comments

Are you in need of an ultraportable and powerful laptop that can have 15 hours of battery lifetime? Yea, so are we and thankfully, Sony has the cure. Meet the Sony VAIO SA, an ultraportable 13.3-inch magnesium-and-alloy chassis laptop. Despite being only 0.95 inches thick, the VAIO SA packs some serious power with,

Intel Core i7 Processor
AMD Radeon HD 6630 graphics and 1GB of video memory
1600 x 900 resolution
LED Backlit Keyboard
Intel Wireless Display 2.0 (for video streaming to your television)
Mic/Camera with Face Tracking and Exmor Sensor (allows the camera to automatically adjust focus and follow you as you move around while video chatting.)
500GB hard drive
Fingerprint reader (perfect for those who want a little extra security)
Blu-ray drive (reader and writer)

For those who want a little more out of their VAIO SA, Sony will allow you to custom order one with a dual channel solid-state drive which if combined with their sheet battery upgrade ($150), will let you achieve 15 hours of battery lifetime. The SA series start around $1,350 and will be available this June.

As always, hit the jump for the official press release and more pictures. What do you guys think? Do you fancy smaller more powerful laptops or do you prefer a larger screen with all that power?

Meet the Sony Freestyle Hybrid Touchscreen PC/Tablet and the Ultimate Mobile PC

by Sohrab Osati | Apr 26, 2011 | 19 comments

If you thought last nights Sony Tablet surprises were the only thing out of the Japanese electronic giant, then you haven’t heard the whole story. After the tablet presentation was done, Sony also showed off two new concept VAIO computers that are going to be coming to the market sooner then later. Though spec are still unknown, what we do know is this. The first which is called the The Freestyle Hybrid PC is more a PC Tablet like device. With a full touchscreen display and Windows OS (though we are not sure which), this seems to be the answer for those who want to work on the go with a Tablet. The other is called the Ultimate Mobile PC that comes with a 13.3-inch screen and follows in a more traditional laptop design. Both units are believed to be utilizing Intels Atom Processors. If those details seem scarce, that’s because they are. There isn’t really a whole lot of information to go off of, beyond what we have just reported. More to come as Sony releases more information.

[Via ITMedia]

Europe Receives Sony’s New VAIO L Series Touch HD PC/TV all-in-one

by Sohrab Osati | Feb 23, 2011 | 2 comments

During CES 2011, we had the chance to look and play with Sony’s new VAIO L which we thought had some Minority Report-like technologies. With the series set to make its way to the US shores in the next month, Sony is already looking at Europe for the next wave of shipments. The VAIO VPCL21S1E/B packs the same 24-inch 1080p Touchscreen display with “Edge Access” that we saw during CES. Now, we also have some official specs to accompany this all-in-one PC which include:

Intel Sandy Bridge Core i7-2630QM
8GB of RAM
1TB HDD
Nvidia GeForce GT 540M
Blu-Ray Reader/Burner
WiFi 802.11n
Bluetooth 3.0
USB 3.0
HDMI Out/In
HD Web Camera and a Wireless Keyboard.

We’re still lacking an official release date and price point but I would expect the latter to stay in line with the current $1,500 price. Hit the jump for a few more shots and official press release.

Sony VAIO S Series Gains Intel Sandy Bridge Core i5-2410M CPU

by Sohrab Osati | Feb 22, 2011 | 13 comments

March is turning out to be a big update month for Sony’s VAIO lineup. Hot on the heels of their VAIO CA and CB announcements, Sony is looking to update their ultra portable and powerful VAIO S with a new design and specs. Grabbing the latest from Intel, the VAIO S will be shipping with Intel’s new Sandy Bridge processor, the Core i5-2410M and a Radeon HD 6470M graphics with up to 1GB of dedicated ram. Other specs include a 1366 x 768 LCD screen, a 500GB hard drive, 4GB of 1333MHz DDR3 RAM, Bluetooth 2.1, 802.11n WiFi, backlit keyboard and ambient light sensor. For those on the go, Sony is also offering a featuring called “everywair” which is a 3G WWAN, allowing you to connect to 3G offerings from mobile providers. Hit the jump for an official press release and additional photos.