Panasonic unveiled its own 2-in-1 convertible tablet computer Saturday, becoming the first public wholesale company to sell the device since Intel revealed its business plan in April.
The electronics giant introduced the gadget at the 2014 International Society for Technology in Education Conference, a meeting that aims to help students in kindergarten through the 12th grade learn more effectively using new technology.
The 3E device also provides mobile computing options according to company officials. A detachable keyboard makes this possible by allowing students to use the computer just like a laptop. This engages pupils in classroom instruction, and improves teachers' jobs through a Windows' 8.1, operating system, 10-inch touchscreen, integrated Wi-Fi, 32 to 64 gigabytes of built-in storage, and eight hours of battery life each time it's charged, according to ZDNet.com.
"Any one of our companies could design and develop a mobile computing solution for the education market," said Rance Poehler, President, Panasonics System Communications Company.
"As educators, it is our imperative to support extended learning and expose students to the tools and environment that await them in the work world," added Jason Messer, Superintendent of the Manteca Unified School District and a 3E customer. "Devices that are purpose-built for K-12 education, like the 3E, are ideal to meet the needs of this market and help the students leap into the digital age."
"At Intel, we're inspired by the potential of technology to bring learning to life and equip students with the skills they need for future success," mentioned John Galvin, vice president of the Sales and Marketing Group at Intel and general manager of Intel Education. "Devices such as the 3E are powerful learning tools that transform how students learn and teachers teach. We're doing more than simply giving students devices to take notes - we're empowering teachers to have more control over their lessons and incorporate interactive features that inspire student curiosity and promote inquiry."