Ultrabook may bring new element to convertible tablet

Though the swivel-screen laptop -- also known as the convertible tablet -- has been around for some time, the impending rise of the Ultrabook™ computer may breathe new life into the market and push the technology to another level.

Since the introduction of the current generation of tablet computers, people have begun to demand more mobility and flexibility from their PCs. At the same time, productivity will always be crucial, and many feel that the physical keyboard is a key element in this area.

The convertible tablet satisfies all these roles. Like a tablet, the device features an outward-facing touchscreen that can be ideal for more basic computing functions, such as web browsing or perusing social media applications. When tasks are better suited for a keyboard and a mouse, the screen can be turned around and the device functions like a traditional laptop.

The market for the convertible tablet is already a growing one, though somewhat niche. For example, the Lenovo® ThinkPad® X220 has become a popular computer for students and professionals.

Introducing these capabilities to the Ultrabook could make the convertible tablet all the more attractive, improving the portability of the devices and aligning them more closely with tablets as we know them today. Though the Ultrabook is still a relatively new technology, it is rapidly evolving, and it is likely the device will see progress in this area before the end of 2012.