OK, the Viliv S5 Is On the Way and I’m Excited Big Time
OK, OK, ever since teasing you about the handheld gadget that is on the way to me at Mobile Tech Manor, my email inbox has been smoking. Everyone wants to know what is on the way so I’ll stop the teasing and let you know that it’s the Viliv S5 Premium that will soon be here.
Why am I so excited about this UMPC? There are lots of reasons and I’ll share those now. First up, I have missed the Sony U-50/70/750 that I used so long ago. There is a lot to be said about how useful a full computer that fits in your hand (and large pocket) can be for a mobile worker like me. No gadget I’ve tried since the U has even come close to filling that need, but the S5 looks on the surface like it could easily do so.
There are several things that set the Viliv S5 apart from other handheld gadgets. First up the hardware specs:
- Processor: Intel Atom 1.33 GHz (Z520)
- Display: 4.8-inch, 1024 x 600 touch-screen
- OS: Windows XP Home
- RAM: 1 GB
- HDD: 60 GB
- Input: on-screen keyboard with haptic feedback
- WiFi: 802.11 b/g
- Bluetooth: 2.0+ EDR
- GPS: Sirf Star3
- Battery: 22.9 Wh (estimated 6 hours)
- I/O: Audio, USB, Mini-USB (for host mode), docking connector
- Size: 154(W) x 84(H)x24.4(T) mm; 6 x 3.3 x .96 in.
- Weight: 420 g (w/ battery); 0.926 lbs.
One particualr thing in the S5’s favor is the on-screen keyboard with haptic feedback. It will depend on how good the keyboard is to use, but for short entry tasks it should be sufficient. I can see using the S5 with a Bluetooth portable keyboard for more extended sessions, which would be quite handy.
The quoted battery life is impressive for a device this size. While the six hours is probably not realistic, even 4.5-5 hours would be pretty good for a pocketable device. I am also intrigued by the standby mode that Viliv has put into play. This is apparently a deep sleep mode similar to that of mobile phones that they claim generates 200 hours of standby while still taking only 5 seconds to fire back up. This is exciting, as it fits the way mobile workers will often use the S5, so it could be a game-changer.
You can probably tell how excited I am about the Viliv S5; I can’t wait for it to show up. The evaluation unit is coming direct from Viliv in Korea on behalf of Dynamism, and I thank both companies for it.
The first time I found your site was with the Sony UX video, I will also order the unit, would love to get your take, and possibly a video, a long and in depth video like the Sony UX review
I love the UX, but the run time killed my dream of a portable device, please let the world know if this will truly be a full day device?
Nice… I wonder why neither this nor the OQO2+ come with an integrated webcam. IMHO, that is so sorely needed in devices of this size. Sweet device though…
Wow James looking at the details and the videos this is one exciting device. I’m assuming from the details on their website this is a small South Korean Company 160+ employees and they are producting something like this? 5 second resume on XP? Why hasn’t that happened from the big players? Waiting with much anticipation for your findings.
how tough would it have been to these companies to add a cellular stack on top and just allow anyone to send and receive calls.
you still can, if you are willing to install a SSD and you can get a modem that supports data and voice, like the Raon Everun. UMPCfever has a picture of the inside and what needs to be done to install a modem, but it does not have a MIC?
Hate to ruin your enthusiasm James, but have you checked out the Fujitsu U820 yet? Better processor/display, SSD drive, 7 hour battery, built-in keyboard, WWAN/WLAN, can run Win 7 and also fits in your jacket pocket. It’s been out for quite a while.
Oh you didn’t. I have no interest in the U820 as I do not like little keyboards. Save me size and weight on handhelds is my motto. The S5 doesn’t have HSDPA yet but will shortly and the 1024×600 display is very nice without being too small. That’s why I prefer the S5, at least until it proves otherwise when it shows up.
I understand your position – and enthusiasm – but I find 5″ screen too small for my ol’ eyes. Where are all the 7″ screen. Any recommendations there?
Samsung Q1 is still the leader I believe. Tabletkiosk still has some models too I believe.
How much will it cost us plebeians to get a hold of?
based on specs look like q1-up is bit better
and why would anyone want a vibrating screen feedback?
well im in uk…and my imported q1up is a real convo starter at starbucks!
James,
Your U71P just read your post and is admittadly homesick. When asked if it could home for a visit, it was met with a resounding “No”. All of the stuff at the Manor it would probably never want to come back.
The form factor is great and it still gets plenty of use. In fact it is going with me to the Dentist today. I will also say that it runs 24/7 and this machine never ever needs a reboot. SONY built that one right from the standpoint of longevity.
But your machine is definitely still alive and well.
My only concern is the Atom 1.3Ghz is way too weak. I have tried out the Japanese version of Sony P with 1.8Ghz and it is so under power to run any high definition video. I think Intel needs to do something here.
I hate to be smug, but I called it in the previous post
I’ve been looking at this machine too. My main concern will be screen size, so I trust you will go into some detail on that aspect of the device. My second concern would be battery life.
In any case, since it looks like the OQO 2+ is in deep trouble, I think the S5 is currently the best bet for a decently pocketable machine. The UMID M1 has one of those annoying keyboards, and I think that it is far too narrow to be useable.
I’ve looked over the U820. It’s a nice little device, but I share your concern over wasted keyboard weight.
james,
can you pls do an extensive review on the usability (or lack thereof) of the virtual keyboard compared to a physical keyboard?
this is the only thing that’s holding me back (aside from not having a webcam and a card reader).
i’m torn between the UMID mbook and the VILIV S5. will wait for you review to finally decide.
jeraldyne
The conventional wisdom is undoubtedly that Vista won’t run well on this. How about XP Tablet or when it arrives, Windows 7? And will we be able to keep the haptic keyboard running one of those operating systems?
I’m asking because XP Tablet supports Chinese handwriting recognition and I assume that Windows 7 will too. The way I’m set up right now, whatever Windows-based device I use needs to be able to do this.
I just bought one in Hong Kong with English XP, and it definitely lives up to the hype. I love it. The screen is a little small, but pin sharp. And it does not have HWR out of the box, but adding RitePen took care of that neatly. No problems at all with the CPU power so far.
I got to play with one of these this week. Lucky for us in Australia that will be getting the 32GB SSD and 2GB RAM model
Mine is already ordered!
Nichola i was wondering if the S5 your purchasing is exsclusive to Australia and how come im not able to find any info about a 2gb model. I know on jkkmobile he mentions a 32gb ssd model with 3g but it only has 1gb of ram. Id like to know these things because id rather have the better model.
Thank You
Pretty sure the S5 is only 1Gb RAM. I know mine is, and the ones that we sell here in Australia are only 1Gb.