Leather Laptop: The Asus S6F
Most electronic gadgets tend to appeal to men. Savvy manufacturers, however, are paying more and more attention to women’s preferences, both in style and function.
At the 2006 International CES, computer manufacturer Asus is taking on this challenge by launching the Asus S6F ultraportable laptop, designed with pink crocodile leather trim. Chip Chick, which broke this story, says that Asus intends to sell this item in the United States later this year.
With its right angles, chunky proportions, and sharp edges, dictated by function more than anything else, a laptop can be one of the more masculine-looking gadgets around. The Asus S6F blends two features – small size and the use of natural, artisanal materials – that make it appealing to women. In truth, however, I think little else can be done to feminize this mobile computing tool, but Asus’ effort is noteworthy nonetheless.
Alas, you won’t find this computer in your neighborhood computer store – company reps say it will be sold in limited quantities in partnership with the fashion house Prada.
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UPDATE: Courtesy of 8080.net and Hardwareluxx, some specifications: the Asus S6F laptop uses a low-voltage version of the Intel Core Duo dual core processor and the Intel 945GM chipset. It is also equipped with an Intel Pro/Wireless 3945 ABG radio for tri-band Wi-Fi capability, as well as a Bluetooth 2.o radio too. The 11.1-inch LCD display definitely positions this luxe laptop in the ultraportable class.
[...] Rival Asus took a similar path too when it recently set up a deal with Prada to manufacture a line of leather-clad laptops beginning with the Asus S6F. It also announced a venture with Lamborghini to produce mobile computers with that company’s striking yellow-and-black colors. Both computers are expected to be fully introduced this March at CeBit 2006 in Hannover, Germany. [...]