Latitude 10 essentials configuration provides value and full tablet functionality for schools and businesses

Every year, CES is buzzing with the latest gadgets and consumer devices but as the convergence of business and consumer devices grows (like Project Ophelia from Cloud Client Computing), we’re naturally seeing more enterprise-ready solutions make their debut at the show. That’s why we’re rolling out the Latitude 10 essentials configuration built for business with a full-featured Windows 8 experience at a great price point. The new Latitude 10 is also built for fun and is offered for fun with rich entertainment features for movies, books and games, as well as compatibility with familiar applications and accessories to transition seamlessly between work and play.

Dell Latitude 10 Windows 8 tablet - Essentials config

As you may remember, the Latitude 10 tablet line is different from our XPS 10 tablet I tested out earlier in some important ways. For one, it runs Windows 8 and has an Intel Atom 1.8 GHz system on a chip, which means it runs legacy Windows programs and run Windows 8 Snap Mode, a feature that enables users to easily multi-task between two applications in a true split-screen mode. Also, like all laptops in the Latitude laptop line, Latitude tablets have robust security and management solutions integrated into the device so companies can easily and quickly deploy them in existing IT networks without needing additional mobile device management or new software licensing.

Beyond that, there are a couple of things that makes Latitude 10 essentials configuration different from the standard Latitude 10 that we announced last year. We designed it to provide a full-featured Windows 8 tablet experience – complete with productivity and collaborative features – at an unprecedented price for unbeatable value. Note: Click on any of  the images in this post to see a larger version.

Dell Latitude 10 Windows 8 tablet - Essentials config (right side view)

First, there is now a sealed 30 WHr battery that helps decrease cost and is ideal for school environments by eliminating parts that school children could remove. It will also come with only Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0, compared to the standard Latitude 10 and its optional mobile broadband connectivity. A passive stylus will be optional instead of an active stylus.

Other than that, you can expect to get the same great features in the standard Latitude 10, like up to 64 GB, Intel integrated graphics, and a 10.1-inch IPS (1366 X 768) wide view angle LED with Corning Gorilla Glass that supports 10-finger touch. And you can take advantage of that great screen with an integrated 720p HD front video webcam and 2MP front camera, plus 8MP rear camera, which will be great for video conference calls with executives in different offices or with teachers in off-campus locations. It also features a full-size USB port to support the many accessibility devices, which are also provided through Dell’s Assistive Technology Service, for individuals with disabilities. These solutions include Optical Character Recognition readers, alternative keyboards, head mouse, eye gaze solutions and alternative switches. The optional dock (see image below) gives you access to even more external ports that offer additional functionality.The new configuration has integrated software solutions like Microsoft Ease of Access Center and can support legacy special education applications, eliminating the need for schools to buy new software licenses.

Dell Latitude 10 Windows 8 tablet dock (rear port view)

The Latitude will join Dell’s existing solutions and services for learning that offer school leaders, school IT administrators and educators the support they need to create an effective personalized learning experience for each student. Check it out if you aren’t familiar, there’s some pretty inspiring stuff there.

The Latitude 10 essentials configuration 64GB is available today starting at $579 for customers in the United States and the 32GB version will be available later this year at $499. Customers in the United States can see more Latitude 10 essentials details at the link.

Dell Latitude 10 Windows 8 tablet - Essentials config with dock

About the Author: Lionel Menchaca