Sony today unveiled a portable multimedia PC with Blu-ray Disc technology that packs power and entertainment into a compact package
Part of a series, the new VAIO FZ notebook comes in multiple configurations, including a premium and standard model. The premium version plays Blu-ray Disc high-definition content so you can enjoy movies in full 1080 HD resolution, as well as record, store and play back personal content on high-capacity BD media.
Weighing less than six pounds, the FZ notebook is designed to maximize LCD real estate integrating space-saving, engineering refinements throughout the chassis. Combined with Sony’s patented XBRITE-HiColor™ technology (on the premium model), the result is a 15.4-inch widescreen display that produces razor-sharp details and crisp, bold colors within the “footprint” of a much smaller notebook.
The FZ premium model also has an HDMI™ connector so you can connect to a high-definition television.
“With the premium model, we are bringing the power of Blu-ray to a portable PC at an unprecedented price of about $2,000,” said Mike Abary, senior vice president of VAIO product marketing at Sony Electronics. “Now consumers can enjoy stunning HD entertainment on their terms — virtually anywhere, any time.”
The new PC incorporates an Intel Centrino Duo processor technology and built-in 802.11n wireless LAN technology for high-speed, wireless computing with greater range and reliability than ever before. A compatible 802.11n access point is required. The model comes pre-installed with the Windows Vista™ Home Premium operating system.
Dream PC for the Entertainment Lover
The FZ notebook includes a full set of dedicated multimedia controls just above the keyboard. With the push of a button you can go straight to your CDs, pictures — even watch movies — without ever booting up the operating system (on the standard model).
And with Sony’s original Sound Reality™ technology, the FZ notebook offers professional-quality, high-resolution surround-sound.
The new model also comes loaded with LocationFree software so you can “place-shift” live TV, access your personal video recorder or DVD player, and view that content on your notebook via the Internet (base station and broadband connectivity required).
An integrated camera and microphone let you send video messages. You can enjoy this feature with free video messaging services, such as AOL Instant Messenger, and stay connected to family, friends and co-workers with user-friendly chat and video mail functions (broadband connection and third-party services required).
The FZ notebook supports ExpressCard™, letting you port data at incredible speeds. This makes it easy to transfer video and large files from external devices to your PC. The unit also includes S-video, which enables convenient connectivity to televisions, cameras and projectors. It also supports all versions of Memory Stick Flash media.
The FZ standard model will start at about $1,400, while the FZ premium Blu-ray Disc model will go for around $2,000. The VAIO FZ series will be available online at www.sony.com/pr/fz. They will also be sold at Sony Style stores and select retailers around the country starting in mid-May.
Specification Sheets (pdf)
