Walk and surf with Sony's updated P series netbook

USE YOUR NOTEBOOK WHILE WALKING with Sony's updated Vaio P series netbook that has GPS and a location search feature, and is designed for two-handed operation while walking - just remember to look where you're going.

Available from June the 0.6kg 3G enabled computer has an 8-inch 1600x768 display and is Sony's first notebook with a digital compass and accelerometer as well as GPS. Sadly it comes with Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium Edition, but if it's any consolation you can choose from five different colours: black, white, pink, green and orange.

Find nearby points of interest with the Vaio's location search software that comes with a "real-time map view without tying up your web browser". Use the location search with the notebook's Everywair 3G that offers up to 7.2Mbps, although Sony nicely reminds us that it only provides connectivity to mobile networks "where available".

For two-handed operation while walking to your destination, Sony says, "The central trackball is complemented by an additional touchpad and mouse buttons. They are located at either edge of the screen for comfortable operation with both thumbs."

When offline the accelerometer allows the user to give the notebook a gentle shake to move through picture collections, a document's pages or go back to earlier web pages. Or you can just shake it out of pure frustration at having to use Windows 7.

Powered by a Intel Z540 first generation Atom microchip, the VAIO P11S1E model comes with 2GB DDR2 SDRAM and a 64GB SSD Flash Drive, Bluetooth, 802.11b/g/n, a camera, stereo speakers and microphone, two USB ports and even comes with a "perforated silicone slip case" and carry strap, for when your hands are otherwise engaged.

The P series was first unveiled at CES in Las Vegas last year. Sony did not give pricing for the updated models, but the older P series are available from £919, so the new versions are also likely to carry a hefty price tag compared to other netbooks. µ