September 22, 2009, 4:38 pm
NorhTec has announced a tablet computer that will cost just $300, run Ubuntu Linux on a 1GHz SoC (system-on-chip), and operate via eight AA batteries. The “Gecko Info Pad” will include an 8.9-inch touchscreen display, 8GB of solid state storage, and needs no external power brick, the company says.
NorhTec’s Gecko Info Pad — touted as “the least expensive tablet PC that’s ever been built” — is an interesting follow-on to the Gecko EduBook, a $200 netbook announced by the company in May. Key features of the EduBook, carried over to the Info Pad include the ability to run for three to four hours on eight, off-the-shelf NiMH (nickel metal hydride) AA batteries, plus an internal power supply that allows recharging the system via a simple, easily replaced AC line cord, the company says…
