Samsung Launches Antibacterial Subnotebook

Samsung is making its first foray into the subnotebook market with a machine that sports a full-size keyboard, which is covered in silver ion to be antibacterial.

Samsung is set to make a splash with its first entry into the growing subnotebook market. The NC10, which is due to hit the market next month, boasts several impressive features.

As well as a 10.2” screen with 1024 x 600 resolution, it will have a full-size keyboard – an unusual feature on a subnotebook – and a battery that the company claims can last for eight hours of use.

More unusual still, the keyboard will be coated with silver ion powder, which, Samsung called Silver Nano Technology and which , "makes it impossible for bacteria to live and breed" on the keys. The NC10 will also have an "ultra-durable Protect-o-Edge casing" as well as a 3-in-1 multi-memory card reader, three USB ports, 802.11b/g Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR wireless connectivity, a built-in webcam, and a VGA connection. It will run Windows XP Home, with options for either 80GB o 160 GB hard drive.

The NC10 will initially be available in Europe and Asia, at a cost of around $650.