Acer at CES 2016
Acer's updated producy lineup to be showacased at this year's CES include Chromebase 24 and Chromebook 11, the Aspire Switch 12 S Skylake-powered 2-in-1 Windows 10 laptop, the Iconia One 8 (B1-850), tablet, the Aspire V Nitro Black Edition notebooks with Intel RealSense Technology inside as well as the the Liquid Jade Primo Smartphone. Updated Aspire V Nitro "Black Edition" notebooks
Acer will introduce the latest Intel RealSense short range camera to their top-of-the-line Aspire V Nitro "Black Edition" notebooks. With the latest Intel RealSense short range camera and Windows 10, users can login to their Aspire V Nitro notebook with Windows Hello and 3D scan objects for 3D printing.
Available on both the 15-inch and 17-inch Aspire V Nitro Black Edition notebooks, the new Intel RealSense Camera offers an improved sensing range of up to 5 feet from the device, secure and personalized login with Windows Hello, and more precise gesture tracking and control. With the improved camera sensing range the operational range is now even larger so that the camera can function when users are further away from the camera compared to previous generations.
With the new Intel RealSense Camera in place, Aspire V Nitro users can control their notebooks more intuitively, such as controlling the cursor with hand gestures. It also enables 3D scanning and printing; users can simply scan an object with the 3D camera and save it. The 3D model can be used as a photo, or altered for output on a 3D printer.
Liquid Jade Primo Smartphone
The new Liquid Jade Primo Smartphone, is a 5.5-inch smartphone running Windows 10 Mobile and allows users to take advantage of Windows 10 features like Continuum.
With a USB Type-C monitor, wireless display accessories or the Display Dock, the Liquid Jade Primo can provide a PC-like experience on an external display with Continuum. It can be used as a touchpad and virtual keyboard, or a keyboard and mouse can be connected for multitasking on both the screen and on the external display; this unlocks use-cases such as:
- Connecting the smartphone to a TV or monitor at hotels or anywhere on the go for productivity-intensive applications, so that the heavier laptop can be left at home.
- Projecting presentation decks to a projector or large screen, while displaying the "Presenter View" on the smartphone.
- Playing videos on the TV while using other apps on the smartphone simultaneously.
The Acer Liquid Jade Primo features Acer’s Liquid Jade design language with a slim profile, curved back cover and 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass screen. The 21MP f/2.2 auto-focus rear camera has dual LED flash and supports up to 4K (3840 x 2160) video recording, and the 8MP f/2.2 front-facing camera boasts a wide-angle of up to 84-degrees while supporting up to Full HD 1080p video recording.
The smartphone features a 5.5-inch Full HD AMOLED display that supports 100 percent of the NTSC color gamut, with 10000:1 contrast, and 176-degree wide-viewing angles. A hexa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 processor, along with 3GB RAM and 32GB of internal memory provides performance needed for multitasking, while LTE Cat. 6 and 802.11ac MIMO connectivity options makes downloads a snap.
The Acer Liquid Jade Primo will be available in EMEA in February with prices starting at €569, and will be gradually rolled out to other regions.
Pocket-Friendly 8-inch Android Tablet for Families
The new Iconia One 8 (B1-850) is an 8-inch media tablet for families, children or novice users. The affordable Android tablet provides enough performance for web browsing, video playback and casual gaming, while featuring the Acer Kids Center app for a child-friendly interface and parental controls.
The Iconia One 8 (B1-850) features an 8-inch HD IPS display with 10-point multi-touch. Running Android 5.1, it features 9 hours of battery life, a MediaTek quad-core processor, a 5MP rear camera, a 2MP front-facing camera, 1GB DDR3L RAM, 16GB internal storage, and a storage expansion slot which supports up to 128GB Micro SD cards. The new Iconia One 8 is available with white or blue back cover options.
The tablet ships preloaded with Kids Center, an app featuring a simplified user interface, and pre-screened content appropriate for children, including videos, games, books, and websites. It also features parental control features such as blocking access to unapproved content, pre-selecting content for children, or even setting a daily time limit for using the tablet.
The Iconia One 8 (B1-850) features smart tools developed by Acer that simplify everyday tasks:
- EZ WakeUp - With just one-touch and a double tap, the tablet awakens and loads a pre-selected app of choice.
- EZ Snap - Makes it easy to take a screenshot with a three-finger pinch.
- System Doctor - Manages the device’s memory, storage, and apps to optimize system functionality
The Acer Iconia One 8 (B1-850) will be available in North America in February with prices starting at US$99.99, and in EMEA this month with prices starting at €129.
New 11.6-inch Chromebook
Acer's newest model in its Chromebook 11 line comes with a more durable design that features a nano-imprinted cover matched by solid and portable design.
The Chromebook 11 can handle up to 60kg of downward force on the top cover, while the corners can tolerate up to 60cm drops without damage. The reinforced case results in greater resistance to twisting and stress.
The device measures 0.73 inches (18.6mm) thin and weighs 2.42 pounds (1.1kg). It has an 11.6-inch display that features non-glare Acer ComfyView, so it limits eye-strain even after long hours of use. The display has a 1366x768 resolution.
The Chromebook 11 is equipped with a high-dynamic range (HDR) camera, two stereo speakers and integrated microphone for audio and video capabilities.
The Acer Chromebook 11 is using Intel Celeron quad-core processors, it features 2GB or 4GB of memory and a 16GB or 32GB eMMC storage. Acer says the device provides up to 9 hours of battery life.
Connectivity options include dual-band 2x2 MIMO 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, USB 3.0, USB 2.0 and HDMI ports. Files can be transfered to or from the Acer Chromebook 11 with the SD reader.
Several models in the Acer Chromebook 11 line (CB3-131) will be available with either 16GB or 32GB eMMC storage and either 2GB or 4GB of RAM. It will be available in North America in February with prices starting at $179.99, and in EMEA in February with prices starting at €329.
Chromebase with Intel Core Processors
Acer also announced the first Chromebase all-in-one desktop with Intel Core processors, the Chromebase 24, combining performance with the simplicity and security of Chrome OS.
The Acer Chromebase 24 (CA24I) features the largest screen of all Chrome OS devices on the market, a 23.8-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) display with IPS technology, reproducing consistent colors at up to 178-degree wide viewing angles. VESA mount support and 10-point multi-touch option allows for even more convenient operation.
Intel Core processors provide the Chromebase 24 with performance, up to 8GB of DDR3L brings a smooth computing experience, and 802.11ac wireless or Gigabit Ethernet enables speedy network connectivity. The Chromebase 24 also incorporates four digital microphones, and can capture the perfect frame with the chassis that easily tilts from - 5° to 30°in addition to the adjustable HD webcam.
The Chromebase 24, based on Chrome OS, will receive automatic updates every six weeks to ensure it always has the latest security and software installed. All data whether stored on the Chromebase or in the cloud are encrypted and protected by its TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 1.2 chip, which securely generates and stores cryptographic keys. Each time Chrome OS boots up, Verified Boot checks the integrity and validity of system files to ensure they have not been tampered with.
Aspire Switch 12 S
Acer's most premium model in its Aspire Switch line of 2-in-1 notebooks is the new Aspire Switch 12 S (SW7-272). It combines a modern design with the latest technologies including the new Acer ExoAmp WiFi antenna embedded in the metal chassis and the new Acer Snap Hinge Gold.
The Acer Switch 12 S has a 12.5-inch display and a flexible 2-in-1 design that, utilizing Continuum on Windows 10, can be used in four modes – notebook, tablet, display and tent. It is powered by the 6th Generation Intel Core M processors and will ship with Windows 10.
The new patented Acer ExoAmp antenna is embedded into the metal chassis to provide WiFi performance while maintaining the device’s unified look. This antenna placement avoids system noise, so the 802.11 b/g/n/ac WiFi and 2x2 MU-MIMO is not only up to three times faster , it’s more stable.
The Acer Snap Hinge Gold is the third-generation of the Acer Snap Hinge, building on the secure latch-less magnetic docking mechanism to provide a connection between the tablet and keyboard. Fast data streaming up to 6Gbps between the tablet and keyboard results in enhanced responsiveness, with support of USB 3.0 transfer speeds. In addition, the hooks of Snap Hinge Gold uses zinc-alloy connectors to charge the keyboard, so there is no need for an unsightly charging cable.
The Aspire Switch 12 S features Thunderbolt 3 on USB-C for ultra-fast charging as well as data and video streaming of up to 40Gbps between devices or to an external HD display, including up to two 4K models simultaneously. Thunderbolt 3 also allows consumers who need even more powerful graphics for gaming to connect an optional Acer Graphics Dock to boost the performance of the Switch 12 S. The Intel RealSense Camera R200 on the rear of the tablet allows Aspire Switch 12 S customers to capture movements for 3D model generating, or 3D scanning for objects or even a whole room.
The 4K (3840x2160) or Full HD (1920x1080) 12.5-inch display on the Switch 12 S keeps text, graphics, charts and video sharp. The display also utilizes Zero Air Gap and IPS technology plus Corning Gorilla Glass 4.
Front-facing speakers with Acer TrueHarmony and Dolby Audio Premium provide rich sound. Plus, the HD front-facing camera (1280 x 720) enables instant communication with other Skype users. Further ensuring business users will be satisfied, the Aspire Switch 12 S supports the Acer Active Pen for note-taking, sketching and more.
The tablet portion measures 7.85 mm thin (0.31 inches); with the keyboard dock connected, it measures only 17.3 mm thin (0.68 inches). The tablet weighs 800 grams (1.76 pounds) and when paired with the keyboard dock in traditional laptop mode, the Switch 12 weighs 1400 grams (3.09 pounds).
In addition to the Thunderbolt 3 port on USB 3.1 Type-C, the Aspire Switch 12 S has two USB 3.0 ports, Micro HDMI, a Micro SD card reader and a headphone/speaker jack. Initial models will be available with 4GB-8GB of memory and either 128GB or 256GB SSD storage.
The Acer Aspire Switch 12 S will be available in North America starting in February at prices starting at $999.99. It will also be available in Europe, the Middle East and Africa in February with prices starting from €1,199, and in China in February with prices starting at ¥6,999.
New monitors: R1 Series, H7 Series and XR Series
Acer has added the the R1,series, H7 series and the XR342CK to its monitor lineup. All new monitors are featuring IPS-panel technology, ensure clear-cut details across 178-degree viewing angles and color consistency across the entire screen.
The Acer R1 series monitors with ultra-thin enclosures under 7mm are designed for everyday computing in any space. The ZeroFrame design maximizes the view and minimizes visual clutter with a thin bezel.
Combining Acer Flicker-less and Blue Light Filter technologies with 5 to 15 degree adjustable tilt, the R1 series is easy on the eyes.
The R1 series boasts Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution and will be available in 21.5-, 23-, 23.8-, 25- and 27-inch screen sizes.
The Acer H7 series monitors are the first to support USB Type-C, so that users can transfer data and display content from notebooks or smartphones, while charging them at the same time through just one cable. With a ZeroFrame design and brushed-metal stand, the Acer H7 series models are offered in 25-inch and 27-inch options. They also boast WQHD (2560 x 1440) display resolution, audio with Acer TrueHarmony and DTS Sound and come outfitted with USB Type-C and HDMI 2.0 ports.
The H7 series supports 100 percent of the sRGB color gamut.
Acer’s next generation XR series, the XR342CK monitor, offers an UltraWide QHD (3440 x 1440) resolution and a 34-inch 21:9 panel with a 1900R curvature and 100 percent of the sRGB color gamut. Special features like 6-axis color adjustment and DTS Sound deepen the audio/visual impact, while a customizable ambient light at the lower edge of the monitor provides lighting effects that match the desired mood. The PIP/PBP and daisy-chain modes allow users to increase their productivity and the base can swivel from -30 to +30 degrees.
The XR series features AMD FreeSync technology, which ensures variable refresh rates for a tear-free experience in gaming and video playback.
In North America, Acer R1 series prices will start at $129.99 with availability in Q1 and the Acer H7 series will be available in February with prices starting at $499.99.
In EMEA, the Acer R1 series will be available in January with prices starting at €139; the H7 series will be available in February with prices starting at €499; and the XR342CK will be available in March with prices starting at €1,099.
New Acer TravelMate P648 Commercial Notebook
Designed for pros, the TravelMate P648 series commercial notebooks run on Windows 10, boasts Intel 6th generation Core i3, i5 and i7 processors, 802.11ad multi-band wireless connectivity and Thunderbolt 3.
The system weighs 3.5 pounds (1.7 kg) and measures just 0.83 inches (2.12 cm) thin. The palm rest and bottom cover are made from magnesium-aluminum, allowing the notebook to handle extreme pressure and protect it from drops. A full-sized chiclet keyboard provides comfortable typing with 1.4mm travel distance, and a spill-resistant design protects the keyboard from accidental spills up to 5 ounces (150 cc). The keys are LED-backlit.
In addition to a card reader and HDMI for connecting to an external display, it’s outfitted with a Thunderbolt 3 (USB 3.1 Type-C) port and three USB 3.0 ports with one supporting power-off charging. The optional Acer ProDock features a full gamut of ports for connecting digital devices and peripherals, including two USB 3.0, DisplayPort, DVI, HDMI, VGA, and Gigabit Ethernet.
The new Acer TravelMate P648 models feature 14-inch displays, are offering choices up to Full HD with IPS technology and up to NVIDIA GeForce 940M graphics with 2GB VRAM. They also boast 4GB DDR4 memory upgradable to 20GB and ample storage space with up to 1TB hard drives or 512GB solid state drives (SSD).
The TravelMate P648 comes with a HDR HD webcam with wide view support, dual microphones and two speakers, a mute key, high-definition audio and Acer Purified.Voice for enhancing voice sound and reducing background noise and keystrokes. Near Field Communication (NFC) supports paperless payments and tickets.
The TravelMate P648 is outfitted with powerful security software and hardware as well as management features.
Acer ProShield Manager, a suite of both security and management tools, safeguards data. It uses pre-boot authentication to protect the notebook from the BIOS to the application level. Users can create a Personal Secure Drive (PSD) to seamlessly store and encrypt all critical files, preventing data from being accessed if the notebook is lost or stolen. In addition, it provides an automated solution for managing IT assets remotely.
An integrated biometric fingerprint reader paired with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2 reader protects the system from unauthorized access and a Kensington lock enables it to be secured to a desk.
Acer Office Manager (AOM), a manageability solution, lets IT professionals deploy security policies, monitor IT assets, and schedule maintenance tasks. Plus, Intel vPro with Active Management Technology enables them to administrate software and hardware computing assets.
The Acer TravelMate P648 commercial notebook line will be available with Windows 10 Pro.
The Acer TravelMate P648 series commercial notebooks will be available in North America in April with prices starting at $799.99, in EMEA in April with prices starting at €999, and in China in February with prices starting at ¥6,999.