Zenith Computers Ltd, one of the largest manufacturers of personal computers in India, on Thursday launched the nation's lowest-priced laptop, preloaded with Microsoft OS, at Rs 14,999.
The company also launched a desktop at Rs 11,999 in Mumbai. It comes loaded with Windows Vista or XP Home Edition.
The new laptop and desktop, launched under the brand name EcoStyle, will be available across India in time for the festive season.
Zenith's chain of 800 authorised dealers and 350 exclusive showrooms will stock these computers. The announcement, made by Raj Saraf, chairman and managing director, Zenith Computers; and Ravi Venkatesan, chairman, Microsoft India, is an effort by the companies to further their initiatives in the affordable computing space.
The company said that the EcoStyle laptop is ideal for youth as it is quie trendy. The laptop is Net-enabled and comes preloaded with the Microsoft productivity suite.
The EcoStyle PC will give the customer an option of choosing Windows Vista Starter or Microsoft Windows XP Home.
The portability of the PC makes it convenient for professionals to carry it whenever they need to -- it weighs just 2.2 kg and has dimensions of 185mm x 250 mm x 70 mm. The desktop will also come preloaded with the Microsoft productivity suite.
Bringing together ease of use and professional performance, the EcoStyle PC is ideal for small office or home offices owners.
The company said that in addition to the portability and the relevant content, both the computers have an added advantage of reduced power consumption due to a smaller screen size. One an average, they consume 30% less power.
On the occasion of the launch, Saraf said, "This initiative is a part of our continuous effort to foster advanced and hassle free computing experience. The initial Rs 10,000 PC was launched with much fanfare, however it failed to perform. With the EcoStyle PC, Zenith is bringing a true low-cost PC which underlines performance and affordability for the consumers."
Meanwhile, Venkatesan said that "under the Microsoft Unlimited Potential initiative, our effort is to bring sustained social and economic opportunity to people who currently don't enjoy the benefits of technology. Our aim is to propel a wider acceptance for IT amongst the masses by extending an opportunity to learn, connect, create, and succeed by combining advanced technologies and relevant partnerships."
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