Since the first Thinkpad designed at Yamato Lab, the product has stood the test of time. With evolving market trends, how does Lenovo plan to keep up?
The hub of Thinkpad design, Yamato Lab, has existed since the 1980s, aside from other R&D centers of some of the world’s tech powerhouses.
Thinkpad is known as one of the most famous business laptops of all time. Born at IBM’s Yamato Lab, the design is said to be inspired by the making of a bento box. Since then, the laptop has come to be primarily engineered in Japan.
Lenovo and Intel’s multi-year partnership to design the latest Thinkpad model – ThinkPad X1 Carbon Aura Edition – is a step forward in elevating the durability of propriety software and hardware. The primary motive behind this innovation has been to infuse personal computers with AI features.
At first, the original Thinkpad had similar dimensions to a bento box, with its components compartmentalized just like the food in the box. Now, consistent customer feedback and innovation have brought us to XI Carbon. It has retained the classic feature – the Thinkpad logo with a red dot.
However, shifting industry trends and market preferences have given them a moment to experiment. Lenovo is now testing new models but with a twist: without the classic TrackPoint (red nub). It was a crucial distinguishing feature that differentiated Lenovo’s Thinkpad from other competitors in the market.
So, why are they planning on removing it?
The TrackPoint requires additional space to install, which is why the laptops are heavier and broader than necessary. In hopes of keeping up with the market and boosting customer convenience, slimming down the laptop might be a necessary factor.
Lenovo’s ideation has established a long lineup of what the Thinkpad could do, entail, and look like – to meet diverse customer expectations. While the Thinkpad is evolving with market demands, it continues to retain the premium build – lightweight feel and sturdiness. By maintaining a unique balance, Lenovo hopes to continue the model’s relevancy for years to come.