Viliv last showed new products back at CES 2011, where it brought two Android tablets – the X7 and X10 – along with a Windows slate, the X70. Subsequent to that, the company was a no-show at the traditionally tablet-centric Computex 2011 last month.

According to Viliv’s Korean site, the company is on its summer holiday at present and that explains the service center being closed; the department is supposedly due to reopen in early August. However, Viliv’s US support line has been disconnected, according to the prerecorded message.

Viliv follows fellow ultramobile innovator OQO in finding that its well-reviewed devices failed to gain traction amid consumers. Long before Apple introduced the iPad, Viliv and others were pushing their own tablet devices but, whether for reasons of pricing, performance or ecosystem shortcomings, they struggled to break out of their niche markets.

Both tablets will be running Android 2.2 (Froyo) if 3.0 (Honeycomb) is not applicaple during their release March and April this year. Both will feature a Cortex A8 1Ghz processor and carry both 3MP rear end and 1.3MP front facing cameras. The images taken from these cameras can be edited and shared straight from the devices themselves. An HDMI port will also be included for streaming to your HDMI capable televisions.

Press Release:

“viliv X7 Android Tablet”, “viliv X10 Android Tablet” and “viliv X70 Windows 7 Slate” Introduced at CES

Substantializing the Leadership of Anywhere Internet Connectivity Longest battery life among existing Android devices.

Las Vegas, US, January 6th, 2011 – A leading Tablet PC manufacturer, viliv (Yukyung Technologies Corporation) today announced two new lineups, the Android Tablet X7 and X10. The tablets are powered by Android 2.2 / 3.0(TBD), with a Cortex A8 1GHz CPU and Power VR SGX 540 GPU chipset. The X7 and X10 are expected to be launched worldwide in March 2011 and April 2011 respectively.

The viliv X7 and X10 allow users to experience true anywhere connectivity with options for 3G HSPA, EVDO, or WIMAX. The new X7 and X10 lineup also feature a best in class battery life, the highest of any current or soon to be released Android devices, continuing to demonstrate viliv’s dedication to creating powerful mobile devices that are truly connected and allow for a full day of productivity.

With support for full HD playback, the viliv X Series Tablets brings consumers a realistic multimedia experience when watching movies, playing games or viewing pictures. Storage can be expanded via the integrated micro-SD card slot (supports SDHC up to 32GB) to provide even more space to store your media. The integrated HDMI-out port even allows you to share them all with friends and family when connected to an HDTV.

With a lightweight design to allow for ease of use, the X Series Tablets includes a number of supportive features such as 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, Bluetooth, stand-alone GPS, a rear 3MP camera and front 1.3MP camera enable users to communicate with substantial quality. The front camera provides for easy video conferencing, while the rear 3MP camera catches images and produces video with clarity that can be shared and edited.

“We face new information technology everyday and viliv tablets can be a solution provider to make our life easy and simple. This fast-changing environment creates demand and we are able to meet customer’s expectation with our decades-old experience in mobile technology.” said Dr. Seung-Jin Yoo, COO/Executive Vice President, viliv by Yukyung Technologies. “Thanks to our understanding of mobile environments, viliv is able to see the opportunities in the field and its tablets take a unique position in the market. IT environments have been changing so fast and people’s expectations are higher than ever. viliv’s brand-new tablets can satisfy all these high expectations.”

In addition to the X Series Android tablets, viliv also unveiled the X70 Windows 7 Slate, proud that it is the slimmest and lightest Windows 7 based tablet in the world. The X70 Slate is the second version of viliv’s existing model, the X70EX. It features upgraded functionality such as Intel next generation mobile CPU, 2GB memory and a smooth capacitive multi-touch LCD. Its 14.3mm ultra- slim design and 420g (0.926lb) weight enhance its portability.

viliv X7 Android Tablet

Longest battery life powered 7 inch Android

Samsung Cortex A8 1 GHz CPU with Power VR SGX 540
512MB Memory
Android 2.2 / 3.0 (TBD)
7 inch (1024×600) Clear Type LCD, 16M color
Capacitive Multi-Touch
1080p Video Playback
Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n
3G HSPA or WIMAX or EVDO
Bluetooth
Stand-alone GPS
Rear 3MP Camera / Front 1.3MP Webcam
HDMI l Micro USB l Micro SD/SDHC supporting 32GB
Storage: 8GB (16GB/32GB available)
Accelerometer/Ambient Sensor/Compass
5600 mA/h, 21W, 9.5 hours Operation
398g / 0.877lb,
14.3mm / 0.56inch Depth Design

viliv X70 Windows 7 Slate

Slimmest and Lightest Windows 7 based Tablet in the world

Next-generation Intel CPU
1GB / 2GB Memory
Windows 7 Starter / Home Premium
7 inch 1024 x 600 Clear Type LCD, 16M color
Capacitive Multi-Touch
1080p Video Playback
Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth
3G HSPA or WIMAX or EVDO
HDMI l Micro USB l Micro SD/SDHC supporting 32GB
Stand-alone GPS
Storage : Fast 32GB SATA SSD (64GB available)
Read/Write : 100M/70Mbps
Rear 3MP Camera / Front 1.3MP Webcam
Accelerometer/Ambient Sensor
5600 mA/h, 21W, 6.5 hours Operation
420g / 0.926lb

14.3mm / 0.56inch Ultra Slim Design

viliv X10 Android Tablet

Longest battery life powered 10.2 inch Android

Samsung Cortex A8 1 GHz CPU with Power VR SGX 540
512M Memory
Android 2.2 / 3.0 (TBD)
10.2 inch (1024×600), 16M Color, 400 nits, Wide Angle
Capacitive Multi-Touch
1080p Video Playback
Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n
3G HSPA or WIMAX or EVDO
Bluetooth
Stand-alone GPS
HDMI l Micro USB l Micro SD/SDHC supporting 32GB
Storage: 8GB (16GB/32GB available)
Rear 3MP Camera / Front 1.3MP Webcam
Accelerometer/Ambient Sensor/Compass
8300 mA/h, 31W, +10 hours Operation
680g / 1.50lb

Both Android models have WiFi b/g/n, optional 3G HSPA or WiMAX or EVDO wireless conenctivity, Bluetooth and GPS, along with a rear 3-megapixel camera and a front 1.3-megapixel camera for video calls. There’s also HDMI, microUSB and a microSD card slot to augment the 8GB, 16GB or 32GB of onboard storage. Sensors include an accelerometer, ambient light, and digital compass. The X7 has a 5,600 mAh battery, good Viliv says for up to 9.5hrs runtime, while the X10 has an 8,300 mAh battery, good for over 10hrs

As for the Windows 7 based Viliv X70, that has 1GB or 2GB of RAM, a choice of 32GB or 64GB SSD and either the Starter or Home Premium versions of Microsoft’s OS. There’s WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth, optional HSPA/WiMAX/EVDO and GPS, together with the same cameras as the Android slates. Ports include HDMI, microUSB and microSD, and the 5,600 mAh battery is good for up to 6.5hrs. Impressively, it weighs a mere 420g and is just 14.3mm thick.

The Viliv X7 Android tablet and Viliv X10 Android tablet will go on sale in March and April 2011 respectively. No word on availability for the Viliv X70 Windows 7 Slate, nor pricing for any of the three. Viliv say the Android version is also undecided, and could be either 2.2 Froyo or Honeycomb; however, if rumors of Honeycomb being restricted to dual-core processors are true, that could force Viliv’s hand in the wrong direction.

[via jkkmobile]

Press Release:

“viliv X7 Android Tablet”, “viliv X10 Android Tablet” and “viliv X70 Windows 7 Slate” Introduced at CES

Substantializing the Leadership of Anywhere Internet Connectivity Longest battery life among existing Android devices.

Las Vegas, US, January 6th, 2011 – A leading Tablet PC manufacturer, viliv (Yukyung Technologies Corporation) today announced two new lineups, the Android Tablet X7 and X10. The tablets are powered by Android 2.2 / 3.0(TBD), with a Cortex A8 1GHz CPU and Power VR SGX 540 GPU chipset. The X7 and X10 are expected to be launched worldwide in March 2011 and April 2011 respectively.

The viliv X7 and X10 allow users to experience true anywhere connectivity with options for 3G HSPA, EVDO, or WIMAX. The new X7 and X10 lineup also feature a best in class battery life, the highest of any current or soon to be released Android devices, continuing to demonstrate viliv’s dedication to creating powerful mobile devices that are truly connected and allow for a full day of productivity.

With support for full HD playback, the viliv X Series Tablets brings consumers a realistic multimedia experience when watching movies, playing games or viewing pictures. Storage can be expanded via the integrated micro-SD card slot (supports SDHC up to 32GB) to provide even more space to store your media. The integrated HDMI-out port even allows you to share them all with friends and family when connected to an HDTV.

With a lightweight design to allow for ease of use, the X Series Tablets includes a number of supportive features such as 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, Bluetooth, stand-alone GPS, a rear 3MP camera and front 1.3MP camera enable users to communicate with substantial quality. The front camera provides for easy video conferencing, while the rear 3MP camera catches images and produces video with clarity that can be shared and edited.

“We face new information technology everyday and viliv tablets can be a solution provider to make our life easy and simple. This fast-changing environment creates demand and we are able to meet customer’s expectation with our decades-old experience in mobile technology.” said Dr. Seung-Jin Yoo, COO/Executive Vice President, viliv by Yukyung Technologies. “Thanks to our understanding of mobile environments, viliv is able to see the opportunities in the field and its tablets take a unique position in the market. IT environments have been changing so fast and people’s expectations are higher than ever. viliv’s brand-new tablets can satisfy all these high expectations.”

In addition to the X Series Android tablets, viliv also unveiled the X70 Windows 7 Slate, proud that it is the slimmest and lightest Windows 7 based tablet in the world. The X70 Slate is the second version of viliv’s existing model, the X70EX. It features upgraded functionality such as Intel next generation mobile CPU, 2GB memory and a smooth capacitive multi-touch LCD. Its 14.3mm ultra- slim design and 420g (0.926lb) weight enhance its portability.

viliv X7 Android Tablet

Longest battery life powered 7 inch Android

Samsung Cortex A8 1 GHz CPU with Power VR SGX 540
512MB Memory
Android 2.2 / 3.0 (TBD)
7 inch (1024×600) Clear Type LCD, 16M color
Capacitive Multi-Touch
1080p Video Playback
Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n
3G HSPA or WIMAX or EVDO
Bluetooth
Stand-alone GPS
Rear 3MP Camera / Front 1.3MP Webcam
HDMI l Micro USB l Micro SD/SDHC supporting 32GB
Storage: 8GB (16GB/32GB available)
Accelerometer/Ambient Sensor/Compass
5600 mA/h, 21W, 9.5 hours Operation
398g / 0.877lb,
14.3mm / 0.56inch Depth Design

viliv X70 Windows 7 Slate

Slimmest and Lightest Windows 7 based Tablet in the world

Next-generation Intel CPU
1GB / 2GB Memory
Windows 7 Starter / Home Premium
7 inch 1024 x 600 Clear Type LCD, 16M color
Capacitive Multi-Touch
1080p Video Playback
Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth
3G HSPA or WIMAX or EVDO
HDMI l Micro USB l Micro SD/SDHC supporting 32GB
Stand-alone GPS
Storage : Fast 32GB SATA SSD (64GB available)
Read/Write : 100M/70Mbps
Rear 3MP Camera / Front 1.3MP Webcam
Accelerometer/Ambient Sensor
5600 mA/h, 21W, 6.5 hours Operation
420g / 0.926lb

14.3mm / 0.56inch Ultra Slim Design

viliv X10 Android Tablet

Longest battery life powered 10.2 inch Android

Samsung Cortex A8 1 GHz CPU with Power VR SGX 540
512M Memory
Android 2.2 / 3.0 (TBD)
10.2 inch (1024×600), 16M Color, 400 nits, Wide Angle
Capacitive Multi-Touch
1080p Video Playback
Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n
3G HSPA or WIMAX or EVDO
Bluetooth
Stand-alone GPS
HDMI l Micro USB l Micro SD/SDHC supporting 32GB
Storage: 8GB (16GB/32GB available)
Rear 3MP Camera / Front 1.3MP Webcam
Accelerometer/Ambient Sensor/Compass
8300 mA/h, 31W, +10 hours Operation
680g / 1.50lb

The company actually showed a small-scale Android device back at CES 2010, in the shape of the Viliv P3 PMP (shown above). That had a 3.7-inch AMOLED WVGA touchscreen, an 800MHz Cortex A8 processor and up to 32GB of storage, squeezed into a 9.8mm thick casing.

The P3 was also able to dual-boot between Android and Windows CE, though we’re guessing the new, unnamed Viliv “media tablet phone” will stick with just Google’s OS, but lacked any sort of cellular connectivity; Viliv was positioning it as an iPod touch rival, not an iPhone alternative. It seems they’ve corrected that mistake this time around.

Meanwhile the Viliv X70 Windows 7 slate is described as the “most slim and light Windows 7 based tablet in the world”. The previous-gen X70 has a 7-inch touchscreen and measures 210 x 117 x 22.5 mm while tipping the scales at 660g.

We’ve already seen the X10 previewed at Computex 2010 earlier this year, complete with 1080p from an HDMI port as well as optional 3G and/or WiMAX. Still to be revealed is what processor the slate runs, as well as that of its presumably 7-inch X7 sibling.

[via jkkmobile]

There’s also a version with an integrated HSPA modem (that goes along with the standard WiFi b/g, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR and GPS) that’s $799.  Each has a 1.3-megapixel camera, USB port, microSD card slot, microphone and stereo speakers, and a tipped battery life of up to 6hrs active runtime.  Niche, certainly, but this dinky PC will likely make some mobile warriors very happy indeed.

The N5 MID sports Windows 7, along with a 1.3GHz Atom Z520 processor. You’ll also be getting 1GB of RAM, and 32GB of SSD tucked away in the small frame. The screen itself is of the 4.8-inch, WSVGA variety, and despite the relatively “lacking” specifications, the reviewers say that the device is perfectly capable of displaying 720p or even 1080p HD video without a problem.

One of the most curious aspects of the N5 was that optical thumbpad. While we weren’t necessarily looking forward to it, Pocketables actually says it’s a fine replacement for a mouse, so consider us pleasantly surprised. As for other features, you’ll get 3G connectivity, WiFi 802.11b/g and Bluetooth. Probably one of the best aspects of the review, though, is the fact that the build quality is apparently superb, so that’s great. Unfortunately, no word on pricing quite yet, but as soon as we hear something, we’ll be sure to pass it along.

[via Pocketables]

Interestingly, while Viliv were showing an Android-based X10 – running OS 2.1 for Computex, but getting OS 2.2 Froyo in time for the slate’s launch – Microsoft had the same hardware running Windows 7 at their booth.  No word on whether it will be offered alongside the Android model, or was just put together to bolster Microsoft’s line-up.

According to LaptopMag, both 720p video playback and 3D gaming were smooth and impressive on the X10, with the latter using the slate’s accelerometer to navigate a racing title.  Battery life is tipped at an iPad-matching 10hrs, and while Viliv aren’t saying when exactly the X10 will go on sale, it’s apparently “coming along nicely”.  Now we just have to hope pricing is palatable.

[via Carrypad]

Running the show – underneath a custom Viliv UI, naturally – is Windows CE6, and there’s SRS Wow HD audio processing tech together with an optional DMB digital TV tuner and DAB digital radio.  Three models are on offer, with 8GB, 16GB or 32GB of flash memory, and each has an SD/SDHC memory card slot to augment that.

Viliv reckon HD5 owners will see around 13 hours of video playback, which seems reasonable, and there’s DivX, Xvid, MPEG-4, H.264 and plenty of other codecs supported.  No word on how much the HD5 will cost.

[via MP4Nation]

The N5 is expected to have a 1.3GHz Atom Z520 processor paired with 32GB of flash storage and 1GB of RAM, as well as Intel GMA 500 graphics and a 1024 x 600 touchscreen display.  There’s also WiFi and Bluetooth, along with optional 3G.  We’re yet to hear final pricing.

The 32GB SSD models, which have an Atom Z530 CPU, are delayed until May 5th, while the entry-level machine – with a 60GB hard-drive and Windows XP rather than Windows 7 as found on the other S10 versions – is due May 7th.  No word on the exact cause of the schedule change beyond that the S10 Blade has been “delayed by the factory”, according to an email sent to a preorder customer.

[via Engadget]

$699 gets you the entry-level S10 with the 1.6GHz Atom CPU, 60GB hard-drive and Windows XP Home (which lacks software-level multitouch support); step up to $797 and you get a 32GB SSD and Windows 7 Home Premium, while $889 adds in an HSPA modem.  If you want more storage, meanwhile, $857 gets you the same Atom Z530 CPU but a 64GB SSD, or $949 if you want the HSPA modem as well.  Finally there are two top-spec S10 Blade models: $1,057 bags a 2.0GHz Intel Atom Z550 CPU and 64GB SSD, while $1,149 adds in the HSPA modem.

Like we said, it’s all pretty expensive compared to other touchscreen netbooks we’ve seen.  To sweeten the deal, Dynamism are throwing in a free spare battery (apparently worth $110) with any 64GB S10 bought in the pre-order period.  Shipments of the Viliv S10 Blade are expected on April 22nd, so preorder customers can expect to see their netbook shortly after.

The S10 Blade gets credit for its solid build quality, sensible design and lengthy battery life.  In fact, it’s capable of 7.5hrs runtime with the display at 70-percent brightness and WiFi switched on.  There are also no moving parts, so it’s silent in running, and the 1.6GHz Atom processor delivers its usual performance: don’t expect 720p HD video or above, but for mainstream tasks the Windows 7 netbook is okay.

Multitouch is deemed perhaps unnecessary for most likely users, and the 1.2kg weight could end up frustrating if you’re constantly using the S10 in tablet mode, but this could make an interesting – and non-iPad – match with Amazon’s upcoming Kindle for Tablets app.  You’ll pay a premium over other netbooks, but if Viliv can get the S10 into Best Buy like it has with other models then maybe it can win some people round.

It’s a decent selection, and reviewers have generally been positive about the Viliv line-up.  One of the more frequently repeated criticisms of tablet PCs, MIDs and UMPCs is that, since they never reached mainstream retail, would-be users never knew what they were missing out on.  With prices kicking off at $549 for the S5 (the X70EX starts at $879 and the S7 at $579) it’s not going to be an impulse purchase, perhaps, but the touchscreen functionality might sway a few people who were previously considering a netbook.

[via jkOnTheRun]

All models come with 1GB of RAM, a 10.1-inch 3-point multitouch-capable display (though the entry-level model lacks OS support for multitouch) running at 1366 x 768, a webcam, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR and WiFi b/g.  The seven SKUs are as follows:

• Atom Z530 1.6GHz/60GB HDD/Win XP – $699
• Atom Z530 1.6GHz/32GB SSD/Win 7 – $797
• Atom Z530 1.6GHz/64GB SSD/Win 7 – $857
• Atom Z530 1.6GHz/32GB SSD/Win 7/HSPA modem – $889
• Atom Z530 1.6GHz/64GB SSD/Win 7/HSPA modem – $949
• Atom Z550 2.0GHz/64GB SSD/Win 7 – $987
• Atom Z550 2.0GHz/64GB SSD/Win 7/HSPA modem – $1,079

Despite Viliv’s work to squeeze up to 10hrs runtime from the S10 Blade (or 7hrs solid video playback), we’re not convinced users will spend over $1k on a netbook.  When you consider what other ultraportable machines you could get for that sort of money, sales success of the S10 seems far from guaranteed.

Processor options include the 1.6GHz Z530 and Intel’s 2.0GHz Atom Z550 chip; RAM is 1GB across the range.  Connectivity, meanwhile, includes WiFi b/g and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR as standard, together with optional HSPA modems on certain models.  There are also two USB 2.0 ports, a USB slave port (for hooking the S10 up to a host PC and making easy file transfers), VGA and a TV-out port (supporting composite, component and S-Video).

Viliv are quoting up to 10hrs use from the 43Wh battery (or 7hrs solid video playback) but we reckon most people will be looking at the S10 Blade as an ultramobile pen- and finger-computing platform.  At 260 x 185 x 17-26 mm it’s a compact package; now all we need to know is specific pricing, though Dynamism so say the S10 Blade will start from a somewhat expensive $699.99.

[via Gadgetmix]

Video demo after the cut

jkkmobile grabbed some hands-on time – which you can see in the video below – and came away both mighty impressed and with the news that Viliv are planning other Android devices in the future; in fact the only real frustration is that this is a PMP and not a smartphone.  Considering Viliv offer various MIDs with integrated 3.5G, that doesn’t seem like too great a stretch; there’s no such thing as too many 720p HD capable Android handsets with up to 32GB storage, microSD and optional T-DMB/DAB tuners.

Full details are unclear – we’ll obviously know more come the show in January – but the Viliv N5 does have a 1024 x 600 4.8-inch display (presumably a touchscreen) and a QWERTY keyboard.  Connectivity includes WiFi and integrated 3G, and there’s GPS too.  Viliv have done some pretty impressive things when it comes to battery life on their MIDs, so we’re quietly hopeful about the longevity of the N5.

Viliv made headlines earlier in 2009 with the S5, a 4.8-inch touchscreen MID.  It seems the N5 is a clamshell version of that model, likely with an Intel Atom processor and SSD storage.

Video demo after the cut

Hardware specs for the S10 are a choice of 32GB or 64GB SSDs, 1GB of RAM and optional 3G.  There’s also a choice of 1.33GHz Atom processor or a faster 2.0GHz chip which we’re assuming is the Atom Z550.  Viliv are claiming up to 10hrs runtime from the standard battery.

One thing to note; unlike what Steve says in the video, the S10 is on course to launch in Q4 2009, not 2010.  Pricing is expected to begin at just over $500 and rise according to options.

Update: More photos from MID Moves now added.

There’s also a choice of 32GB or 64GB SSDs, 1GB of RAM and optional 3G.  According to Laptop Mag, Viliv are using SanDisk SSDs which are prioritising power frugality over performance; still, you should see 70MBps read rates and it’s in runtime that the S10 really does stand out.

Viliv are claiming the S10 will run for 10 hours straight off a single charge, which is ambitious but – given the strong showing the company’s MIDs have put in – does at least point to a full work day of runtime.  The S10 will start from over $500 and head skyward depending on how many options boxes are ticked.

Newegg have three X70 models to choose from, starting at $599.99 for the 1.20GHz Atom Z515 “Express P”, then the $729.99 “Premium P”, and finally the $879.99 “Premium 3GP”.  Unfortunately Dynamism’s prices are all a couple of bucks cheaper, plus they’re offering free accessories and even a CPU upgrade on the entry-level model.  Nice try, Newegg; how about a quick price slash to show you love us?

[via Laptoping]

Video unboxing after the cut

James Kendrick has worried a few people already by describing the S7′s keyboard as having “super small keys”, though given that you’re looking at a device around the size of an original Eee PC, that shouldn’t come as too much of a shock.  Viliv’s expectations of battery life – up to 9.5hrs – are already being critiqued, but we’ve seen earlier testing that suggests the S7 can manage around 7.5hrs of Xvid playback.

Importers Dynamism are already listing the S7, in advance of their pre-order event.  If you’ve been tempted by the compact convertible then you’ll be looking at prices from $629, or from $799 if you want integrated 3G.

jkkmobile Viliv S7 unboxing:

That gets you the entry-level S7 complete with Intel’s 1.33GHz Z520 processor, 1GB of RAM and a 60GB hard-drive.  Next up is the S7/32ssd, which as the name suggests switches out the HDD for a 32GB SSD, for $659.  Finally there’s the S7/32ssd/3G, which adds in an integrated HSPA modem along with the 32GB solid-state drive, for $799.  That 3G modem is expected to be voice-capable, so you could feasibly – and assuming you have deep pockets in every sense – leave your cellphone at home and rely on the S7 for calls.

No exact word on when Dynamism will get their stock in, but we’re hearing from several bloggers in North America and Europe that demo units are flying out from Viliv themselves.  That would certainly suggest that the S7 is imminent.

[via UMPC Portal]

It almost goes without saying that Viliv will have a harder time breaking into the market with the S7 than with their previous MIDs.  There’s still plenty of confusion – and even fewer well-known or publicized devices – about what exactly a MID is, whereas netbooks have crashed through from niche item to something you’ll readily find on the shelves of your nearest Best Buy.

With that, it’s good to hear that the S7 is at least well made and sturdy.  UMPC Fever’s Joe reports solid plastics and a stable hinge, together with very loud integrated speakers, but there are problems too: aside from the fact that his engineering sample can’t have the WiFi/Bluetooth and 3G modules active simultaneously (expected to be fixed for the production version), there’s also some worrying pressure-colors from using the touchscreen and some of the keys are “unacceptably small”.

So much of the S7′s reception is going to depend on pricing, and we’re yet to hear what importers may charge for the compact device.  In Korea it will start from the equivalent of $588, though there are some differences expected between those models and what will arrive in international markets.

“Thank you for your recent order of the Viliv X70.  We had hoped to be emailing you with the tracking number, but unfortunately that is not the case.  Our shipment has been delayed by the factory.  For the record, the delay is due to a components shortage: the recession has been less severe than suppliers expected, and MIDs have been especially popular this year. These factors have led to constraints on some components.  We are sorry about this delay.” Dynamism

Shipments of X70 units were intended to begin yesterday, on July 28th, but are now believed to be delayed around two weeks until August 11th.  That’s an estimate, however, and while Dynamism are “doing everything within in our power to push for fastest possible shipment” it of course depends on how quickly the Viliv factory can churn out (and ship) the first US-bound batch of UMPCs.

Preorders for the touchscreen UMPC began on July 6th, with would-be buyers courted with a bundled accessory package.  The X70 uses Intel’s Atom processor and begins at $599.

Lazion picked some particularly battery-intensive tasks for their testing, including DivX and Xvid video playback, DMB viewing using the UMPC’s integrated TV tuner (which will likely be Korea-only, sadly) and even some distributed processing.  They found the S7 lasted 7:28 playing Xvid video (and 6:13 playing DivX), managed 6:50 of DMB with wireless off and screen on half-brightness, and 5:45 of Korea@Home distributed processing with WiFi on and screen brightness on full.

Not, then, the longest runtimes we’ve seen from any ultramobile device, but considering the Viliv S7 has a 4,700mAh battery and weighs just 29.3oz it’s quite an achievement.  We’d also expect lengthier runtimes when doing more casual tasks, such as surfing the internet over WiFi.  More photos and comparison shots here.

[via Pocketables]

Video demo after the cut

Shuffle is seemingly the follow-up to Viliv’s Cube UI as seen on the S5 and X70 devices.  It more closely resembles a Media Center UI, with CoverFlow-style browsing, while underneath there’s Windows XP.

No sign of the final packaging as yet – this is just a sample, so only the battery and charger came with the S7 itself – but we can still see the final ports and keyboard layout.  Viliv have found space for two USB 2.0 ports, a VGA output, audio in/out, mini-USB and an SD card slot; however they’ve made a few unusual design decisions, in putting the right-hand shift key to the extreme right, next to the arrow keys, and pushing the trackpad to above the number row.

Still, we imagine the touchscreen will bypass any trackpad worries, and keyboard layout on these compact machines is always going to be a compromise.  We’re still waiting to see import pricing for the Viliv S7, especially for the 2GHz “flagship” version; in Korea it will start from the equivalent of $555 for the 1.33GHz Atom Z530 model.

[via UMPC Fever]

According to jkkmobile, the 2GHz flagship will also have a number of as-yet unrevealed features that Viliv will announce closer to launch.  Considering the Korean model has an optional DMB TV tuner and optional WiBro, we’ve high hopes for what these new features might be.

As for the other international S7 models, these will use the Atom 1.33GHz processor with various combinations of HDD, SSD and integrated 3G available.  All have a 7-inch 1024 x 600 resistive touchscreen, WiFi and Bluetooth.  More on the S7 from our CES coverage.

Each of the S7 models will use Intel’s Atom Z520 processor running at 1.33GHz, paired with 1GB of RAM.  Storage will range from a 60GB HDD on the entry-level S7 I-LOG HX, through to a 32GB SSD on the I-LOG 3X and D-LOG 3X.  That final model will also get a DMB digital TV tuner.

We had a brief chance to go hands-on with the S7 back at CES in January, and came away impressed at the touchscreen responsiveness and the generally sturdy build of the prototypes the company were showing.  With the positive reaction to the S5 MID and X70 UMPC, the S7 could be the device that picks up those last, die-hard mobile users who won’t settle for anything less than a hardware keyboard.  No word on when exactly they’ll arrive on the market.

Update: International versions detailed here, including 2GHz Atom Z550 model

[via Pocketables]

Video review of Viliv X70 after the cut

Being the avid upgrader that his is, jkkmobile didn’t stop at unboxing and demonstrating the X70 but instead got out the screwdrivers and stripped it down to the bare essentials.  He found that the RAM – 1GB across the board – is soldered down, and that the SSD uses a mini Zif connector meaning that, on the 3G models at least, there’s no room for a replacement 1.8-inch SSD.

Still, out of the box it’s apparently a great little handheld, offering lengthy battery life and a very usable custom UI of Viliv’s own making.  There’s also the benefit of Windows XP underneath (though Windows 7 works too), meaning that the X70 is far more flexible than something like the cheaper CrunchPad.

The freebies are limited to the first 777 preorder customers.  Those who go for the cheapest $599 Viliv X70 Express will automatically get an upgrade from the standard 1.2GHz Atom CPU to the 1.3GHz Atom Z520, together with a free car kit, leather pouch and screen-protector. 

Meanwhile anyone going for the more expensive X70 Premium models – which have the 1.3GHz CPU as standard, with various SSD sizes from 32GB to 128GB and the choice of integrated 3G HSPA – will get a free standard battery, car kit, leather pouch and screen-protector.  The Premium range starts from $729.

While the bigger SSDs and integrated 3G sound good, we’d still go for the base model X70 and pair it with a MiFi.  After all, slot in a 16GB microSD card and you’ve got twice the solid-state storage, plus 3G connectivity for four other WiFi devices.

Two variants will be on offer, each with an integrated HSPA modem that can be used with AT&T’s 3G service (though not T-Mobile USA’s, at it lacks the band support).  Intel’s 1.33GHz Atom Z520 processor and 1GB of RAM is standard across the range, but the entry-level 3G model has a 32GB SSD whereas the top-spec version has a 128GB SSD.

Other specifications include integrated GPS, a 4.8-inch touchscreen, custom Viliv UI and Windows XP Home OS.  The 32GB Viliv S5 Premium 3G has a preorder price of $799, while the 128GB Viliv S5 Premium 3G comes in at a huge $1,299.

[via Pocketables]

If Apple isn’t your choice of platform, then we also unboxed HTC’s new flagship Windows Mobile smartphone, the Touch Pro2.  A slide-out QWERTY keyboard, huge touchscreen and more connectivity than you could legitimately ask for, we’ll have the full review this coming week. 

Meanwhile, we also reviewed Amazon’s latest ebook reader, the 9.7-inch Kindle DX.  Aimed at students, newspaper & magazine addicts and businesses, the big question is whether it offers a realistic leap over the Kindle 2 that’s around $100 cheaper.  Finally, we featured our review of Sleek Audio’s CT6 Custom earphones, individually molded to the wearer’s ear-canal and promising tailored audio. 

Elsewhere, we saw the Palm Pre jailbroken and running Doom, heard a glowing review of the Viliv X70 UMPC, and saw leaked details of Intel’s upcoming Atom CPU range.  There were also hands-on videos of Pixel Qi’s incredible 3Qi low-power display, leaked photos of Sony Ericsson’s XPERIA X2, and confirmation that the Nokia N97 and N86 8MP were both arriving in stores across America.  Archos also held their long-awaited press conference, sadly not delivering the Android MID we’d been promised but dropping the Windows 7 Archos 9 UMPC instead.

Video demo of X70 running StreetDeck PND app after the cut

The X70′s battery is good for around 6hrs of WiFi browsing or 5-6hrs of video playback, and the Intel Atom Z520 processor managed full-screen HQ YouTube videos though struggled with HD versions.  The Viliv X70 is available to preorder now, priced from $599.

Current negatives include poor battery status management to Windows, though Viliv are hoping to have that fixed in time for the final build, and the lack of handwriting recognition in the standard OS.  There’s also no palm-rejection technology, so this probably isn’t the UMPC for large-scale pen input.  It’s a short list, certainly.

As for StreetDeck, in the video below you can see the X70 docked in Viliv’s own car-kit, and taking advantage of the UMPC’s inbuilt GPS receiver.  The X70 puts in a better performance than the S5 managed, even, helped no doubt by the extra screen real-estate.

Viliv X70 StreetDeck demo:

[via UMPC Portal]

Video comparison of S5 and X70 after the cut

Both displays run at 1024 x 600, and each machine is based on an Intel Atom processor – a choice of Z515 or Z520 in the X70, just the Z520 in the S5 – with 1GB of RAM.  As for storage, the X70 gets a choice of 16 or 32GB SSDs, while the S5 has a 60GB HDD; the X70 also squeezes in a webcam and will have a 3G option soon too.  Importers don’t seem to be so quick to offer Viliv’s S5 3G version.

James’ overall opinion seems to be that if he’s at home, he’ll reach for the X70, whereas if he’s out it’s the S5 that’s more likely to accompany him; still, if there’s more serious work to do during that time, he’ll wish he had the bigger Viliv.  More impressions of the X70 here.

[wpvideo BFO4sETH]

Pricing for the Viliv S5 – which has a smaller, 4.8-inch touchscreen – is also around $599.  Your money gets you an X70 with an Intel Atom Z515 processor (running at 1.2GHz; the Atom Z520 1.3GHz CPU is an option) plus a 16GB SSD (compared to the S5′s 60GB HDD; the X70 can also get a 32GB SSD) and 1GB of RAM.  Options include integrated HSPA and cables to hook the X70 up to a computer display or a TV via component.

While you lose out on pocketability with the X70, you gain on usable screen space.  The resolution of both Viliv devices is the same – 1024 x 600 – but an extra couple of inches should make for less squinting.  No word on pricing for the 32GB SSD or 32GB SSD/3G models, nor when any of them will begin shipping.

[via jkOnTheRun]

Right now, it looks like the X70 is edging out the S5 for usability.  The screen is, at 7-inches, obviously more capacious than the S5′s 4.8-inch display, and that makes finger-use more straightforward.  It’s also a thinner design than the S5, and squeezes in a webcam for Skype video calls.

Best of all, thanks to the SSD storage – this particular demo unit has a 32GB solid-state drive – it’s a relatively speedy little devil; resuming from standby takes seconds, though HD YouTube or Hulu videos do show some stutter.  We’re blaming the 1.33GHz Intel Atom processor for that.  Still, it’s looking like a tempting device; now we just need pricing details from Viliv.

Video after the cut

Specs of this review unit include a 1.33GHz Intel Atom CPU, paired with 1GB of RAM and a 32GB SSD.  It also has integrated 3G, a webcam and both USB ports and an SD card slot.  The GUI is the same as on the S5, with Viliv’s own stacked-sphere launcher and on-screen keyboard.

It also comes with a clever flip-case, with a mount which allows the Viliv to rotate and use the case as a stand.  No word on pricing nor release date; this unit came direct from Viliv themselves; check out our hands-on photos of the X70 here.

[wpvideo sgGrFydA]

Anecdotal research suggests that it is the English-language build of Windows XP Home that Viliv have used on some models that is tainted.  The install is a custom mixture of the Microsoft OS and Viliv’s own modifications, which offer things such as an on-screen keyboard.

The viruses in question include kinza.exe, win32.QQrob-32 and ActMon-Pro.  Current advice is to run a virus scan as soon as possible if you pick up an S5, preferably before connecting it to your home network or attempting to synchronize data between it and an existing system.

[via Pocketables]

Meanwhile, Sony Ericsson announced the Satio – the phone formerly known as Idou – together with the Yari and Aino, and we went hands-on with all three at their London launch.  With just a week to go until the Palm Pre hits shelves, our sibling-site My Pre offered up the user-guide, Getting Started and Features Guide documents.  We also saw camera samples from the phone, plus heard it will have push-GMail support and native iTunes compatibility. 

In netbooks, it’s been a week of newly polished systems and slightly more unusual hardware.  HP unveiled their Mini 1101, 110 XP and 110 Mi machines, while we saw the first full review of the SmartQ 7 MID and heard that UMID’s mbook M1 will get a few more interesting variants over the next month or so.  With Computex kicking off this week, Viliv have dropped some heavy hints about what they might be announcing, including what sounds like a version of the S5 MID with a QWERTY keyboard.

E3 is just around the corner, and what’s likely to be Sony’s pride and joy, the PSP Go, has leaked.  A compact handheld gaming system almost half the weight of the PSP-3000 and dropping the UMD system in favor of digital download, the PSP Go looks set to go on sale alongside the existing console.

Also suffering leaks a-plenty are Apple, whose next-gen iPhone and iPod nano 5G were both tipped this week.  The former is expected to have Google Latitude support as standard, among other things, while the latter is said to bundle a new camera. It’ll go up against PMP heavyweights like iriver’s P35, which will land in the US sometime this fall, and Microsoft’s new Zune HD.

Finally, we brought you the second part of our behind-the-wheel test drive of the Lincoln MKS, together with reviews of Seagate’s Showcase DVR Storage Expander and the Hantech Siso Tablo.  That just left enough time to slot in a review and video demo of the Tonium Pacemaker Pocket DJ.