Acer Aspire 8950G-9839 gets Core i7-2630Q in Aspire Sandy Bridge refresh

Acer has launched a set of new laptops using Intel's 2nd-gen Core 2011 range of processors. The Acer Aspire 8950 range is the company's new flagship, with the Aspire 8950G-9839 sitting at the top with Intel's Core i7-2630Q processor, ATI Radeon 6850 graphics and 8GB of RAM as standard. It has an 18.4-inch 1080p HD display, Blu-ray, a 750GB HDD and a spare second internal drive bay.

Meanwhile the 15.6-inch Acer Aspire 5750 and 5750G, and the 17.3-inch Aspire 7750G get Intel's Core i7-2630Q CPU. The 15.6-inch models pack up to 640GB of HDD and up to 6GB of RAM, along with NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M Optimus graphics on the 5750G; the 17.3-inch gets up to 750GB and ATI Mobility Radeon HD 6550 or 6650 graphics.

All four have HDMI, WiFi b/g/n, webcams and the usual array of ports. The Acer Aspire 8950G-9839 will go on sale from January 9 2011, priced at $1,599.99. Acer is asking from $899.99 for the Aspire 5750 and 5750G, and from $1029.99 for the Aspire 7750G, when they go on sale at the same time.

Press Release:

Acer Introduces New Aspire Notebook Series Packed with New Performance-Enhancing Technology

New Aspire notebooks feature new quad-core and dual-core processors and next-generation graphics solutions

SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 6, 2011 – Acer America today announced its new line of Aspire notebooks geared for consumers who demand outstanding HD entertainment and smooth multitasking in a mobile form factor. The new notebook lines come packed with features and technology options including the latest quad-core processing technology from Intel or new dual-core processors from AMD. Combined with Acer's clear.fi home entertainment solution for sharing content in the home, branded discrete graphics and Blu-ray, the new Aspire line is well equipped for digital applications.

"The new line-up of Aspire notebooks will give consumers advanced productivity and outstanding entertainment capabilities," said Preeta Anil, senior manager of product marketing for Acer America. "The new Aspire line upholds Acer's strong tradition of offering first-to-market, leading-edge technologies at budget-friendly prices."

Everyday Multitasking, Digital Media Enjoyment and Communication

For consumers who desire amplified PC performance, the new Aspire 5750, 5750G and Aspire 7750G notebooks feature the ultra-fast, 2nd-generation Intel® Core i7 (2630QM) quad-core processor with Turbo Boost 2.0 technology, smart graphics power on demand, cutting-edge communication features and advanced surround sound.

Utilizing the power of Intel's quad-core processors, the Aspire 5750, 5750G and 7750G notebooks provide maximum CPU/GPU performance for amazing high-definition (HD) experiences. The Aspire 7750G allow users to economically configure two DDR3 SODIMM slots, upgradeable up to 8GB[i] of system memory via two 4GB memory modules, while the Aspire 5750 and 7750 notebooks come loaded with 4GB or 6GB of memory. The Aspire notebooks offer ample hard drives for storing a vast library of music, videos, images and games, up to 750GB capacity on the Aspire 7750G and up to 640GB on the Aspire 5750.

For consumers who desire a notebook with discrete graphics, the new Aspire series offer next-generation options from both NVIDIA and ATI. The Aspire 5750G is one of the first to market with the new NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 540M graphics solution, which includes full DirectX 11 support along with NVIDIA Optimus™ technology, a hybrid graphic engine that intelligently optimizes a notebook to switch between UMA or discrete graphics, depending on the application's needs. The Aspire 7750G notebooks are outfitted with power-efficient discrete ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD 6550 or 6650 graphics, which deliver performance on demand for smooth multitasking and impressive multimedia.

The Aspire 5750, 5750G and 7750G notebook series feature visually appealing and practical designs. The notebooks are housed in black, matte mesh pattern preventing smudges and scratches. With LED-backlit widescreen displays, the Aspire 5750 and 57050G sports a 15.6-inch HD display (1366 x 768 resolution), while the Aspire 7750G touts a 17.3-inch HD+ display (1600 x 900 resolution), ideally suited for entertainment needs and outstanding visual experiences. A complete HD entertainment center, the Aspire notebooks feature Dolby® Advanced Audio v2 virtual surround sound for an immersive audio sound experience, along with an HDMI port for connecting to an HDTV or external display. The Aspire 7750G notebooks are also available with a Blu-ray drive.

For easy communication needs, the Aspire 5750, 5750G and 7750G notebooks feature clear.fi, Acer's digital home entertainment solution that automatically connects all Acer devices onto a home network – including a smartphone, notebook, desktop, HD media player and home storage. clear.fi gathers media files from devices, then categorizes by media type, allowing easy access to digital files.

The new Aspire 5750, 5750G and 7750G notebooks will be available for U.S. customers on Jan. 9 at select retailers, with prices beginning at MSRP $899.99 for the Aspire 5750 and 5750G, and $1029.99 for the Aspire 7750G.

New AMD Dual-Core Technology for Everyday HD Computing

For budget-conscious mobile PC users, the new Aspire 5253 series features the latest AMD E-350 processor with VISION Technology. The new AMD dual-core processor combined with the notebook's 15.6-inch high-definition LED-backlit Acer CineCrystal™ widescreen display allows consumers to enjoy and share full HD content effortlessly, and experience smooth and vivid DVD and HD video playback.

The Aspire 5253 series offers up a 320GB hard drive for quick retrieval and storing of digital files, and up to 4GB DDR3 memory, allowing consumers to breeze through multiple tasks simultaneously. Featuring next-generation ATI Radeon™ HD 6310 graphics, the Aspire 5253 series delivers crystal-clear images and brilliant color for the latest games, movies, photos or videos. Taking the visual experience one step further, the Aspire 5253 notebooks also feature an HDMI port, providing crisp, high-quality visuals and audio through a single cable.

The Aspire 5253 series will be available for U.S. customers at select retailers beginning Jan. 9, with prices beginning at MSRP $449.99.

Communication and Productivity

All four notebook lines come with integrated 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi CERTIFIED wireless technology and Gigabit Ethernet to facilitate smooth and trouble-free Internet access. The Acer Crystal Eye 1.3 megapixel HD webcam enables high-quality video chats and VoIP with friends, family and work associates.

The notebooks also come equipped with Windows® 7 Home Premium and Office Starter 2010 for easy content creation and productivity.

About Acer

Since its founding in 1976, Acer has achieved the goal of breaking the barriers between people and technology. Globally, Acer ranks No. 2 for total PCs and notebooks[ii]. A profitable and sustainable Channel Business Model is instrumental to the company's continuing growth, while its multi-brand approach effectively integrates Acer, Gateway, Packard Bell, and eMachines brands in worldwide markets. Acer strives to design environmentally friendly products and establish a green supply chain through collaboration with suppliers. Acer is proud to be a Worldwide Partner of the Olympic Movement, including the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter and London 2012 Olympic Games. The Acer Group employs 7,000 people worldwide. 2009 revenues reached US$17.9 billion. See www.acer-group.com for more information.

© 2011 Acer America Corp. All rights reserved. Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and/or service marks, indicated or otherwise, are the property of their respective owners. All offers subject to change without notice or obligation and may not be available through all sales channels. Prices listed are manufacturer suggested retail price and may vary by location. Applicable sales tax extra.

Press Release:

Acer Unveils the Ultimate Portable Entertainment Center with the New Aspire AS8950G Notebook Computer

Acer's highest-performing notebook pairs the new Intel i7-2630QM processor with next generation ATI graphics, edge-to-edge display, Blu-ray and Dolby sound to deliver an unparalleled high-definition personal theater experience

SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 6, 2011 – Acer America, part of the world's second largest manufacturer of notebook PCs (1), today announced its highest performing model in its flagship notebook line with the introduction of the Aspire AS8950G-9839.

Combining elegant style with killer technology and usability features, the Aspire AS8950 Series delivers an unparalleled high-definition personal theater experience, and is the notebook of choice among enthusiasts who demand the best in design, performance, multimedia and graphics capabilities.

Featuring the new Intel Core™ i7-2630QM processor, the latest ATI Mobility Radeon 6850 graphics processor with 2GB of dedicated video memory and 8GB of DDR3 dual-channel memory (upgradeable to 16GB), the new Aspire AS8950G delivers the advanced performance and incredible system response needed for demanding multimedia content creation, photo and video editing, or hard-core gaming and online entertainment.

The 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor is designed to handle HD and 3D, multitasking and multimedia. Its top-of-the-line speed is complemented by Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0(2), which adapts and increases processor speed for more performance when it's needed most. Intel Hyper-Threading Technology(3) allows each processor core to work on two tasks at the same time for more responsive multitasking. Its unique set of graphics and media features delivers a better visual experience without sacrificing battery life.

"The new Acer Aspire AS8950G is the ultimate portable entertainment center," said Preeta Anil, Acer product marketing. "The new 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor delivers approximately a 20 percent overall performance gain, while its graphics subsystem delivers performance comparable to an entry level discrete graphics card. This allows the Acer Aspire 8950 to process video and play Blu-ray better than ever."

In addition, realistic high-definition video and a full-throttle immersive computing experience define the Aspire AS8950G-9839. Enthusiasts will covet the enhanced home theatre capabilities delivered through its superior display and high-quality surround sound. Its brilliant CineCrystal™ 18.4-inch edge-to-edge glass LED back-lit display with full high-definition (1080p) resolution delivers razor sharp visuals, while a Blu-ray drive delivers clarity, precision and extraordinary detail. The advanced visuals are perfectly partnered with a Dolby® optimized Acer CineSurround sound system that includes five built-in speakers and a dedicated subwoofer. Lastly, an HDMI port allows quick and easy hook up to a large screen high-definition television.

Additional high-end features include a 750GB(5) SATA hard drive, dual-hard drive support (providing up to 1.5TB of total possible storage), a firewire port for moving videos quickly from a digital camcorder, and an eSATA port for fast data transfer.

Its unique dual-mode touchpad enables switching between multi-gesture mode and media console mode, and the flick of a finger launches favorite movies or music. A convenient scrolling volume wheel directly under the touchpad makes it easy to control volume levels.

Connecting to the Internet is fast and easy, with 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ wireless for the road and Gigabit Ethernet for fast connection at home.

A 1.3 megapixel HD webcam and digital microphone provides clear high-quality online chat sessions, and can also take still pictures and videos for sharing with friends. The notebooks also include a bio-protection fingerprint reader, preventing unauthorized use of the PC.

Configurations, Pricing and Availability

With MSRP starting at $1,599.99, the Acer Aspire AS8950G-9839 will be available next week (Jan. 9) at leading retailers.

About Acer

Since its founding in 1976, Acer has achieved the goal of breaking the barriers between people and technology. Globally, Acer ranks No. 2 for total PCs and notebooks.(1) A profitable and sustainable Channel Business Model is instrumental to the company's continuing growth, while its multi-brand approach effectively integrates Acer, Gateway, Packard Bell, and eMachines brands in worldwide markets. Acer strives to design environmentally friendly products and establish a green supply chain through collaboration with suppliers. Acer is proud to be a Worldwide Partner of the Olympic Movement, including the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter and London 2012 Olympic Games. The Acer Group employs 7,000 people worldwide. 2009 revenues reached US$17.9 billion. See www.acer-group.com for more information.

© 2011 Acer America Corp. All rights reserved. Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and/or service marks, indicated or otherwise, are the property of their respective owners. All offers subject to change without notice or obligation and may not be available through all sales channels. Prices listed are manufacturer suggested retail price and may vary by location. Applicable sales tax extra.

(1) Source: Gartner data, FY2009.

(2) (TURBO) Requires a system with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology capability. Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 is the next generation of Intel Turbo Boost Technology and is available only on 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i5 and Core™ i7 processors. Consult your PC manufacturer. Performance varies depending on hardware, software and system configuration. For more information, visit http://www.intel.com/technology/turboboost.

(3) (HT) Available on select Intel® Core™ processors. Requires an Intel® HT Technology enabled system. Consult your PC manufacturer. Performance will vary depending on the specific hardware and software used. For more information including details on which processors support HT Technology, visit http://www.intel.com/info/hyperthreading.

(4) (Built-in Visuals) Available on the 2nd gen Intel® Core™ processor family. Includes Intel® HD Graphics, Intel® Quick Sync Video, Intel® Clear Video HD Technology, Intel® InTru™ 3D Technology, and Intel® Advanced Vector Extensions. Also optionally includes Intel® Wireless Display depending on whether enabled on a given system or not. Whether you will receive the benefits of built-in visuals depends upon the particular design of the PC you choose. Consult your PC manufacturer whether built-in visuals are enabled on your system. Learn more about built-in visuals at http://www.intel.com/technology/visualtechnology/index.htm.

(5) Accessible capacity varies: MB =1 million bytes; GB = 1 billion bytes.