This year, we may see a big rise in the number of ARM-based laptops with the introduction of the first MacBooks featuring Apple ARM-based chipsets. To surf the new wave, Qualcomm has just introduced its second-gen Snapdragon 8cx platform, this time featuring 5G connectivity. This chipset will be playing a big role in the Windows on ARM strategy. Now, Acer announced that it will be the first OEM to use the new ARM-based chipset in a new Windows 10 2-in-1 device dubbed Acer Spin 7. It offers a convertible experience with a fully articulated hinge that lets you opt between tablet mode or stand mode.
A Windows 10 2-in-1 device with blazing-fast 5G connectivity
As aforementioned, the new chipset both LTE and 5G networks, but it’s up to every OEM to decide between LTE / 5G or just LTE. The Snapdragon X55 Modem is optional for Snapdragon 8cx Gen 2 builds. When it comes to the Acer Spin 7, the OEM is opting for the version ready to surf through the speedy 5G networks.
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The new 2-in-1 devices come with antimicrobial silver-ion agents on the surfaces. The treated surfaces include the touchpad, keyboard, and surrounding areas. It’s a nice feature to see in these days. The device flaunts a 14-inch IPS LCD with a 100% sRGB color gamut. The panel comes with Gorilla Glass coating and also features an antimicrobial layer.
The device weighs 3.09 lbs and its 15.9 thick when closed. It’s constructed with a magnesium-aluminum alloy chassis in a blue-toned finish. It also boasts an active stylus that is charged via a slot within the Acer Spin 7. Acer wants to ensure a seamless experience while using the Stylus and is offering 4,096 levels of pressure thanks to Wacom AES 1.0 technology. Another interesting feature present on Spin 7 is a fingerprint scanner for biometric authentication.
“A “multi-day” battery life”
According to Acer, the slate will bring a capable battery that supports several days on a single charge. Those are bold claims for sure, but the company fails to provide the actual battery size. Of course, we can expect the device to be power-efficient, after all, the new Snapdragon 8cx Gen 2 is a 7nm chipset.
The company is yet to disclose additional specifications of the device. However, this should happen in the coming months as the device will only hit the shelves later this year. We are curious to see how it will stand in a growing market like the one for ARM-based Windows PCs. Apple is working hard to ensure that most of its apps will run on the new chip standard with the macOS Big Sur. This certainly will be harder to achieve in a platform like Windows.
