Taipei (ip-192.com): Asustek Computer Inc. just revealed a new touchscreen computer called Eee Pad that runs on Microsoft's Windows 7.  The Taiwanese manufacturer says that a 10-inch model, the EP101TC, and a 12-inch model, the EP121, will be available. Both devices are powered by Intel Core 2 Duo processors and offer about 10 hours worth of battery life, Asus claims. The tablets feature a touch sensitive screen and support Adobe Flash, which is required for viewing many websites.

"Designed for the tech-savvy, on-the-go individual, the ultra-slim ASUS Eee Pad acts as a supplementary Windows-based portable tablet PC that keeps the user perpetually connected to the information superhighway," says Asus in a statement. "Social networking sites, movies, video-conferencing - virtually everything is at the users' fingertips."

Both devices are positioned as compact tablet computers, multimedia players, and e-readers. They are capable of true multitasking. The EP121 can be controlled through an embedded virtual keyboard or a hybrid keyboard via a docking station and runs on a full version of Windows 7 Home Premium. The EP101TC weighs in at 24 Oz (675 grams) and runs on Windows Embedded Compact 7.

Asustek says that it plans to launch the two devices in the first quarter of 2011. While few details are available, the company plans to co-develop an application store with Intel. Prices have been set at $399 for the EP101TC and $449 for the EP121, according to Asustek.

Photo: Asustek Computer Inc.

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