Lenovo updates ThinkPad lineup with eighth-gen Intel chips, thinner designs, and more
Just ahead of CES 2018, Lenovo has taken the wraps off of the latest updates to its ThinkPad lineup.
In all, Lenovo is introducing new and updated ThinkPad X, T, and L models, all of which are packed with Intel's latest eighth-generation processors. But there are also some other notable enhancements across the lineup, including webcam covers, USB-C power adapters, and "broader support" for Windows Hello facial recognition.
At the top of the lineup is the ThinkPad X series, which now includes the X280 and the X380 Yoga. The X380 is now 20 percent lighter and 15 percent thinner, coming in at 2.5 pounds and 17.4mm thick, Lenovo says. The X380 Yoga includes and active pen and Windows Hello support. And, as its name suggests, the screen on the X380 Yoga can be flipped back to convert into tablet or tent mode, and other positions. Both models support rapid charging, and Lenov claims both a Mil-Spec tested for durability to work in "some of the world's most inhospitable places." The X280 will start at $999, while the X380 Yoga will start at $1,459.
The T series now includes updated models with the T480s, T480, and T580. Aside from Intel's eighth-generation processors, each includes an IR camera, fingerprint reader, and a privacy shutter for the webcam. Optionally, the T580 can be equipped with discrete graphics. Lenovo also says extended battery options will be available with up to 27 hours of battery life, which would be impressive if accurate. The T series will start at $989 for the T480, going up from there.
The ThinkPad L series includes new L380 Yoga, L380, L480, and L580 models. A new 13-inch model is available, and the 14 and 15-inch models are now thinner and lighter. Eighth-generation Intel Core processors are once again the star here, in addition to option touch displays. Lastly, the ThinkPad L580 will be offered with option discrete AMD graphics. The ThinkPad L series will start at $549 for the L380 Yoga, going up from there.
Last is the new Lenovo Tablet 10, an Intel Celeron-powered tablet with a detachable keyboard and pen. A fingerprint reader is included here, as well as a Trusted Platform Module. Lenovo says it is targeting the Tablet 10 for the healthcare and retail markets. Pricing for the Tablet 10 isn't available yet.
In terms of availability, the new ThinkPad models in the X and T ranges, along with the Tablet 10 are expected to launch in January. The ThinkPad L lineup is expected to launch in February.
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Dan Thorp-Lancaster is the former Editor-in-Chief of Windows Central. He began working with Windows Central, Android Central, and iMore as a news writer in 2014 and is obsessed with tech of all sorts. You can follow Dan on Twitter @DthorpL and Instagram @heyitsdtl.