A new handheld-sized computer from IBM dubbed "MetaPad" packs enough power to replace your desktop or laptop computer, while it can act as both, or a wearable - or a handheld.
IBM researchers have invented a prototype 9-ounce portable computing device that could pave the way for a new set of functionality in the handheld space with its capability of transforming into either a handheld, desktop, laptop, tablet or a wearable computer, without having to be rebooted. Codenamed "MetaPad", the device is about the size of a ¾ inch (2 cm) thick stack of 3-by-5 inch (7,5 by 12,5 cm) index cards, and is part of IBM's research to explore how humans interact with computers and to help identify the technologies needed for future pervasive devices and the infrastructure that will support these devices.
 | IBM researchers Ken Ocheltree and Bob Ohlya inspect their "MetaPad" computer core invention
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The MetaPad core itself sports impressive specifications as it can use everything from a 300 to 800 MHz processor based on need and power requirements, has a 10 GB hard drive, 128 MB RAM, a 3D graphics chip as well as patented IBM voice and ink recognition software to provide a variety of user interfaces.
What is so unique about the MetaPad core is that it can act as the centerpiece of any kind of system given its self-contained capabilities. In the effort to make the MetaPad so small, IBM researchers pulled the power supply, display and I/O connectors out of the computer core - leaving components removed from the machine become accessories, allowing the individual users to decide how they want to use the device.
Usage scenarioes mentioned by IBM include attaching the MetaPad to a small touch screen and carry it like a PDA, placing it into a cradle which is attached to a keyboard and display at home, work or in a hotel, placing it into a laptop-like shell and use it as a laptop, attach it to a wearable harness with a small head-mounted display for use as a wearable computer, or lastly place it into a connector in an airplane seat that is linked to a touch screen display.
IBM seems to think that the handheld solution could be one of the most popular, since it along with the MetaPad also announced the MetaPad handheld display which is a 13.7-ounce 5.8" touch-screen display with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels, audio in-out connectors and a power connector.
The advantage with IBM's solution is that while handhelds today requires synchronizing to be performed among multiple devices to keep the same data updated everywhere, the MetaPad allows a user to carry all the power of his desktop or laptop system as well as all his data with him at all times. Granted, the MetaPad might not be powerful for all users, but for a vast majority of computer users it could prove a valid solution.
Just like desktop and laptop systems, the MetaPad can run multiple operating systems that share the same data, allowing users to run any application they want. The prototype displayed by IBM uses a special version of Microsoft's Windows XP that already has built-in handwriting recognizing software.
IBM says it will not make or market the MetaPad as a product, but may license the technologies to OEM partners, while their key goal remains their study in how people interact with their information, and in understanding that, how IBM should develop the software, middleware and hardware needed to improve the user experience, and to build the infrastructure for pervasive devices.
Another potential application of the MetaPad is in the super dense server space, offering an alternate way to build servers. By plugging many of these small devices into a rack system, IBM envisions a user getting high-performance in a very small form factor, making it easier and more affordable for individuals to have their own personal server.
Enough with the talking; hi-res pictures of the MetaPad can be found on the following pages. Enjoy :)
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