If you look at the tablet pc news this year and then take a peak in stores you’ll see that many of the models presented are not available yet. This has to do with the fact that the first generation of a product is always hard to get right. And because the stakes are high, as always, manufacturers want to ensure they get on market a product that won’t break in the first days of use.

    What strikes me is that some manufacturers are taking higher risks, putting things like dual screens into their first product. This is the case with Kno, the most recent dual screen tablet, presented to press at D8 All Things Digital Conference. The presented unit was a prototype, nothing final, but was enough to make an impression, one with mixed feelings, partially because of the sluggish Linux UI used. It’s something to be expected, as Windows 7 and Android are not well suited for dual screen operation mode and a custom OS needed to be used.

    Kno will make an impression, for sure

    Kno will make an impression, for sure

    What makes the Kno stand out, even for a dual screen tablet, is the size of the two screens: an amazing 14.1 inch in diagonal, with 1440 x900 pixels resolution and IPS panels (one of the best technologies right now). But size has a cost in weight, which is not that friendly at 5.5 pounds, but not that big to make it impossible to use. Power is provided by a Tegra 2 chipset. Even if the two screens are big and power hungry battery life is estimated at 6 hours. If you want to see how it works here’s a promotional video made especially for Kno:

    And a few press pictures with Kno in various positions:

    Now, even if I don’t believe I’ll ever see the Kno in action I would like the idea of a dual screen tablet, but maybe with smaller screens, 10 maximum 12 inches. That will also keep the price down from the estimated 1000$ end user price. We’ll keep you updated on Kno so check back here from time to time.

    Source: Crunchgear, Gottabemobile