At CES 2023, Lenovo unveils PCs that twist all over the place

In addition to the ThinkPhone (the mobile version of the famous ThinkPad), Lenovo relies heavily on computers to succeed in its CES 2023. In addition to revisions of the most classic ranges, Numerama had the opportunity to play with three rather unusual devices. While these are unlikely to ever become the norm, they do have the merit of trying to reinvent the market in their own way.

Two screens on one device is pretty good

The most interesting product launched by Lenovo is called the Yoga Book 9i. This laptop uses a concept from the Surface Neo, a discontinued product from Microsoft. The idea is quite simple: the keyboard is replaced by a second screen of the same size, which makes the computer more versatile. The Yoga Book has two 13.3-inch OLED screens, both touchscreen.

What is this for ? At first, the concept may seem quite ridiculous.

After seeing it in action, the Yoga Book 9i has great potential, especially for people who are used to working with an external screen. For example, thanks to a support with keyboard supplied with the device, you can use the two screens of the Yoga Book side by side to have Windows on two screens, as with an external monitor. Placing the keyboard on one of the two screens also allows you to adapt the interface, so as not to hide important content. The realization of the product is quite successful, even if it will have to find an audience. Which, at 2,299 euros, is not won.

A digital ink screen behind the screen

Definitely, Lenovo likes devices with multiple screens. His second wacky concept of the day is called the ThinkBook Plus. It’s a traditional-looking laptop, with a 13.3-inch OLED screen. But you have to beware of appearances.

Indeed, the screen of the ThinkBook Plus is able to rotate to make room for… another screen. How useful is it, if you can’t use both at the same time? Lenovo had the idea of ​​using an e-Ink panel, like on e-readers, to allow the device to be used with reduced consumption. The Chinese brand gives the example of reading a long document or a presentation displayed permanently, which will consume less on this second slab. Why not.

At 1,699 euros excluding tax (so probably around 2,000 euros), the ThinkBook Plus will also have to fight to find its audience.

Accessories to improve your computer

Again, Lenovo is surprising. One of its new computers, the ThinkBook 16p Gen 4, is compatible with magnetic accessories. The brand’s idea is to make its new laptops modular, allowing users to improve their capabilities. Three “Magic Bays” will be offered at launch:

• One to add a 4K webcam.
• One to add a 4G connection.
• One to light up during video calls (strangely there is no light on the 4K webcam).

The computer will cost 1,399 euros excluding tax, while accessory prices are still unknown.