For those of us in Singapore, notebooks with Windows XP Media Center Edition operating systems have been distinctly missing in the market. Due to the relatively steep hardware requirement, which includes TV tuner and remote control, only top-of-the-line models have the ability to handle this particular flavor of Windows XP. Add this to the lack of public awareness of Media Center features, and it's not surprising that vendors shy away from bringing Media Center products into the relatively small Singapore market.
Fortunately, the ASUS A7J, with dual-core processor and Media Center Edition OS, is leading the way for the the mobile entertainment market segment. The 17-inch display of the A7J will be well-used by the integrated TV tuner, Webcam and high-end ATI Mobility Radeon X1600 graphics card. As befits a flagship model, a full suite of connectivity options, from five USB 2.0 ports to Bluetooth V2.0, can be found on this notebook. The only problem is that, with such a comprehensive list of audio-visual and network features, invariably battery life is the first item to be sacrificed. Stay tuned for the full review.
In what it claims to be the first for Singapore, Sony Singapore is rolling out its VAIO TX ultraportables in a color that should appeal to the fashion jetset. The new metallic copper hue will grace the lid of the VAIO VGN-TX27GP/T, alongside more common shades like Sapphire Black (VGN-TX27GP/B) and Platinum White (VGN-TX26GP/W).