Since we first laid eyes on this innovative tablet at CES, we’ve always wondered what it would be like if Android was running on such a device. Well, our dreams have come true, Lenovo has opted out of using their own custom version of Linux in favor of Android. They also have pushed back the release most likely in preparation for an Android loaded Skylight and UI Hybrid.
After careful consideration of market conditions and user feedback, Lenovo has decided to focus its resources on building a family of next-generation mobile internet devices based upon open technologies such as (but not limited to) the Android kernel, similar to the Lenovo smartphone, which is available for sale in China now.
As a result of Lenovo’s strategic shift towards open standards such as an Android kernel based environment, the Company has shelved its plans to release the initial version of the Skylight smartbook that featured a proprietary Linux-based OS.
Lenovo remains committed to working with our strategic partners to deliver innovative products in the growing mobile internet space, including the aforementioned smartphones and smartbooks, as well as exploring innovative new concepts that continue to “push-the-envelope” like the U1 hybrid PC.
The more interesting of the two is the UI Hybrid, it has a detachable touch screen tablet. While docked, it runs Windows 7 and when you remove the tablet portion it runs the same custom version of Linux that the Skylight has. Since it’s now being preloaded with Android we don’t know yet if it will keep this same setup or have the ability to dual boot Android and Windows 7 or if it will be all Android. Lenovo is now targeting Q4 as a release for their Android powered devices.
[via engadget]
