March 5, 2006 05:13 PM
Why the Microsoft Origami will / will not work for doctors

The current buzz is about Microsoft Origami, the soon-to-be released ultra-portable computer that apparently will be smaller than a notebook and larger than a PDA, yet it will run Windows XP. I read a bit about what it should or should not be able to do, and I think it will be a good addition to current portable hardware solutions. There are still not that many details out there, but based on what is currently known, here are my reactions:

Pros:
- Very portable and light
- Touchscreen should work just like a Tablet PC
- Will run most desktop applications
- Great connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.

Cons:
- Short battery life (3h ?)
- Price (around US$500-1000 ?)
- Will not fit in anyone's pocket

For doctors, it all depends on how the professional works. If it is mostly standing, rounding, having to carry it around and open it all the time, this might be too bulky. A PDA should be enough. But for a office-based doctor, who has to be in several meetings, clinics and such, I think it is a great addition. It is enough to use the Internet, Office applications, keep track of patients, in such a way that it does not get in the way. I am really interested in this device (or groups of devices), it should be announced next week.

Posted by leo at March 5, 2006 05:13 PM

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