Hands-on with Lenovo's Futuristic Auto Twist AI PC Concept
At this year's IFA show in Berlin, Lenovo is showcasing an array of innovative AI-powered devices, headlined by a revolutionary prototype that could redefine laptop interaction. The Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC is a proof-of-concept device, which means it's designed to demonstrate a new feature in real-world conditions. It features a unique dual-axis rotating display that automatically adjusts its orientation based on voice commands of where the user is standing (or sitting).
I recently had the opportunity to get hands-on with this intriguing concept at a preview event in New York City. In my demo, I was able to use plain language voice commands to make the hybrid laptop transition between open and closed, and between traditional clamshell and tablet modes, all without laying a finger anywhere near it.
It's basically a laptop with a voice-activated 360-degree hinge, and while it didn't work perfectly every time, I was able to run it through each mode in sequence without problems using just my voice. In theory, the system would be able to use its webcam to track you and keep the screen aligned to you as you move around, and even shut its own lid when you've left the room.
While still a proof of concept, the Auto Twist AI PC offers a glimpse into a future where devices become more responsive and adaptive to our needs. This exact device probably won't be a retail product, but the ideas here may filter into future laptops and hybrids.
@danacknyc Check out the voice-controller Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC Prototype! More hands-on details at microcenter.news. @microcenter.com @lenovo
Alongside this futuristic concept, Lenovo is introducing several new AI-enhanced laptops, including the following:
ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition: A premium business laptop weighing under 1kg, featuring Intel's latest Core Ultra processors and innovative AI capabilities like an Elliptic Labs AI Virtual Sensor, which will trigger simple drag and drop transfer of photos between the laptop and iOS or Android phones. Expected to get a Microsoft Copilot Plus certification later on.
ThinkPad T14s Gen 6: Powered by AMD Ryzen processors, offering enhanced performance for business users and features like a brighter WUXGA panel at 400 nits. Expected to get a Microsoft Copilot Plus certification later on.
ThinkBook 16 Gen 7: With the new, lower-cost Snapdragon X Plus 8-core processor, which will bring the cost down to $750.
IdeaPad Slim 5 Series: Available in 13-inch and 15-inch screen sizes, these thin-and-light laptops have AMD Ryzen 7000 processors. It had an all-metal design, and the 15-inch model offers an OLED screen.
IdeaPad 5x 2-in-1: A convertible Copilot Plus PC featuring the new Snapdragon X Plus 8-core processor, an OLED touchscreen, and a 360-degree hinge.
These new Lenovo PCs will be available between September and November, for between $750 and $2,000.
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Micro Center Editor-in-Chief Dan Ackerman is a veteran tech reporter and has served as Editor-in-Chief of Gizmodo and Editorial Director at CNET. He's been testing and reviewing laptops and other consumer tech for almost 20 years and is the author of The Tetris Effect, a Cold War history of the world's most influential video game. Contact Dan at dackerman@microcenter.com.
