Intel Promotes Hefty, 27-inch Tablet Concept

If Sony's SNE oversized all-in-one PC/tablet combo was not big enough for consumers, Intel INTC might have the perfect replacement. According to DigiTimes, Intel has begun to push its so-called adaptive all-in-one PC concept -- which provides a platform to build semi-portable desktop computers -- to manufacturers. Sony was one of the first companies to experiment with this concept. The Japanese tech giant released a 20-inch, 11-pound Vaio machine last fall. Featuring Windows 8, a touch screen and a built-in battery, this all-in-one PC could be used with or without a power outlet. When Intel announced the new platform last fall, the company seemed to be focused on building machines with displays that measured at least 20 inches diagonally. According to the DigiTimes report, Intel has "suggested" to manufacturers that they build machines between 18.4 and 27 inches. The smallest size might seem ideal for business professionals who want a little more power (and a larger screen) than what is currently offered by an Apple AAPL iPad or an Amazon AMZN Kindle Fire. The largest size, however, is big enough to replace a small high-def television. Given the added weight and expanded screen size, consumers might be wary about the portability of these devices. Panasonic PC made some progress earlier this year when it unveiled the world's first 4K tablet. The device, which was built to be a full Windows 8 Pro PC, comes with an 18-inch Ultra HD display. At 5.3 pounds, it is half as heavy as Sony's all-in-one desktop. In addition to Sony and Panasonic, Lenovo and Dell DELL are also in the process of building new oversized tablets. This is not the first new PC concept that Intel has decided to support. Two years ago the company said that it would spend $300 million to create a MacBook Air competitor. This led to the design of the Ultrabook concept, which provides manufacturers with smaller, lighter and more efficient processors, allowing them to build thinner and lighter notebooks. Thus far, Ultrabooks have not become the sales-igniting, record-breaking format Intel had anticipated. However, they are still expected to account for 40 percent of all notebook shipments in 2013. Louis Bedigian is the Senior Tech Analyst and Features Writer of Benzinga. You can reach him at 248-636-1322 or louis(at)benzingapro(dot)com. Follow him @LouisBedigianBZ