New Gateway Notebooks Sport HDMI, Webcams

Gateway's new T-series and M-series notebooks sport Webcams and HDMI interfaces - with the option for true 1080p viewing on the M-series systems.

Computer maker Gateway has announced two new T-series and M-series notebook computers designed to appeal to computer users seeking both sleek design and multimedia fun—without breaking the bank.

"Although the elegant design of the notebooks conveys an exclusivity typically only available at a price premium, Gateway has designed these systems to meet the needs and budgets of a range of consumers," said Todd Titera, Gateway’s senior manager for consumer products, in a statement. "Anyone who wants to be envied will choose the notebooks for their first-class design and leading-edge performance and capabilities, while those on a more limited budget will be surprised that they can get such a stylish notebook with popular features."

Gateway will be offering several models within the M- and T-series, and expanding the list of options available over time. The T-series will boast a 14.1-inch widescreen display, while the M-series will pack a 15.4-inch widescreen LCD; both series will also feature an HDMI video interface so users can enjoy high-definition video content—and for folks to whom 1080p means everything, the M-series will offer a 1080p-capable 1920 by 1200 resolution display as an option. The notebooks also feature integrated multimedia controls giving users access to fast-forward, rewind, pause, and volume controls, along with a front-panel headphone output. The systems also sport a 1.3 megapixel Webcam, and either 802.11/a/b/g or 802.11 draft N Wi-Fi networking. Systems will be available with Intel’s Centrino Mobile technologies and Core 2 Duo processors, and will offer Bluetooth wireless connectivity and fingerprint readers as options. Over the next few months, Gateway plans to offer the M-series and T-series systems additional options, including ATI Mobility Radeon HD 2400 XT PCI Express graphics on the M-series and expanded optical drive options—including a slot-loading DVD burner and HD-DVD and Blu-ray capability.

The M-series and T-series notebooks will all sport the company’s RidgeView cover design over either Crimson Red, Pacific Blue, or Slate grey, with aluminum trim around the keyboard. Visually, both series are a departure from the rather ordinary look of previous Gateway models; for the media-centric user Gateway is trying to attract with these models, that’s probably a step in the right direction.

Intitial models in the M-series and T-series—the M-6816 and T-6815—will be available July 22 through leading retail outlets at prices started at $899.99; additional systems in both series will follow. Gateway also plans to offer units through its own direct sales channels, starting with the M-150X and T-140X with prices starting at $999.99, with full customization options.