Lenovo Considers Releasing ThinkPad With Classic Features
Lenovo is seeking feedback on its commitment to release a ThinkPad that combines modern features with those of the 2008 X300 and those of the very first IBM ThinkPad from 1992.
The new ThinkPad with retro features should have an old-fashioned blue enter key and extended keyboard with seven rows of keys and a dedicated volume control. The screen should offer a 16:10 aspect ratio and the ThinkPad logo should be in classic colored letters on the back of the screen and near the keyboard.
The 1992 IBM ThinkPad 700c
In addition, Lenovo is considering returning the rubber finish over the surface, using many status LEDs and not hiding the screws, so that users will be able to open the system easily. In addition, any upcoming ThinkPad should have two ThinkLights: two lights in the top of the screen that shine on the keyboard.
Renders show what the system should look like in Lenovo’s eyes. “Think of it like stepping into a time machine and coming out in 1992,” explains David Hill, vice president of Lenovo’s design department. That year, IBM introduced the first ThinkPad laptop, the 700c, designed by Richard Sapper. The new system should take over elements of that model, but also be based on the design of the X300 from 2008. Furthermore, the retro machine would have modern specifications, such as a thickness of 18 mm.
Lenovo calls on internet users to express their thoughts about the business machine. Even with positive reception, the group does not guarantee a production start: the company also wants some indication that the system will sell well before costs are invested in the development.
In 2004, Lenovo acquired the ThinkPad line from IBM.