Lenovo and NVIDIA announce ION optimized netbook

Chicago (IL) – Lenovo has introduced a netbook that reportedly delivers “up to 10 times faster graphics performance than today’s small laptops.”

The IdeaPad S12 features NVIDIA’s ION graphics processor, along with a 12-inch screen, 160 GB of storage, 1 GB of memory and a six hour battery life.

According to Jeff Fisher of NVIDIA, the advanced netbook is a “game changer” for the industry.

“It’s a powerful testament to what a small PC can do if it’s optimized with ION,” explained Fisher. “The thin and affordable S12 does everything you expect a PC to do including watching movies, playing games, flipping through vacation pictures or editing family videos.”

The S12, which is equipped with an HDMI port, supports HD and Blu-ray video up to 1080p. In addition, the unit is compatible with XP, Vista and Windows 7. The netbook offers WiFi connectivity, is 3G ready and weighs in at just three pounds.

The S12 is expected to retail at $449 later this summer.

“NVIDIA ION is one of the latest technologies available for the PC industry for small, low cost laptop PCs,” said Stephen DiFranco a Lenovo VP. “With its 12-inch display (and) full-size keyboard, the IdeaPad S12 balances an improved computing experience along with size and affordability.”