Lenovo just announced a new Ideapad Miix 700 convertible tablet with a specific rival in sight: the Microsoft Surface Pro line.
Blurring the line between tablets and laptops has been part of Lenovo's efforts for a good while now, but its latest Ideapad Miix 700 is obviously gunning for the Surface Pro. Sporting an uncanny resemblance in many aspects, at first glance the Ideapad Miix 700 basically seems like a Surface Pro clone with Lenovo branding.
From the stylus to the magnetic keyboard cover that allows the tablet to morph into a laptop, the similarities between the new Lenovo Ideapad Miix 700 and the Microsoft Surface Pro line cannot be ignored. Just like Microsoft's version, Lenovo's Miix 700 also comes with a hinged kickstand at the back, which makes it look very familiar. The new convertible expands to roughly 160 degrees, sports a 12-inch display and runs Windows 10 out of the box.
In terms of hardware specifications, the Lenovo Ideapad Miix 700 packs a Core M7 Skylake processor under the hood, integrated Intel HD graphics, up to 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of SSD storage capacity. The 12-inch display sports a resolution of up to 2160 x 1440, depending on model.
"Recognizably different, the 2-in-1 tablet is powered by up to a new 6th Gen Intel Core m7 processor and features dual watchband hinges, opening the door for new and disruptive ways to work and play with seamless transition between laptop, stand and tablet mode - ideal for those who value stylish and progressive design," boasts Lenovo.
Other specs of the Miix 700 include 5-megapixel front and rear cameras, but users with deeper pockets can also opt for an Intel RealSense 3D camera that will allow them to log into Windows 10 via face recognition. Microsoft has yet to implement this in its Surface lineup, but is expected to do so with its next-generation premium tablet due later this year.
The new Ideapad Miix 700 will hit retail availability in November, sporting a $699 starting price. The base model doesn't include the RealSense 3D camera and Lenovo has yet to offer pricing details for all available configurations.
The company also announced other products, including an Ideacentre AIO in 24- and 27-inch versions and optional RealSense Camera, an Ideapad 300 in 14-, 15- and 17-inch display options, an Ideapad 500 in 14- and 15-inch display sizes and optional RealSense Camera for the larger model, an Ideapad 100S in 11- and 14-inch versions, an Ideapad 300S also in 11- and 14-inch models, and an Ideapad 500S in 13-, 14- and 15-inch models. Lenovo will be showcasing its latest goodies at the upcoming IFA 2015 trade show.
