Razer Pitches Switchblade Mobile Gaming PC

Razer showed off a new idea of a mobile gaming computer, which the company claims achieves, for the very first time, a "phenomenal" combination of mouse+keyboard functionality in a mobile device.

Razer showed off a new idea of a mobile gaming computer, which the company claims achieves, for the very first time, a "phenomenal" combination of mouse+keyboard functionality in a mobile device.

The Switchblade, which looks a bit like a clumsy netbook, integrates a 7" touch screen, as well as a layer of adaptive tactile screens for the keyboard. Razer also considers a dual-screen layout.  The keyboard reconfigures itself automatically for each game that is played. The result is stunning, while you may wonder whether seven inches are enough for a decent gaming experiences - and whether the integrated Atom processor can deliver the punch necessary in a device that caters to hardcore gamers.

So, how much does it cost? Nothing, as you can't buy and won't be able to buy it for some time. It is a concept design, but Razer said that it is looking for partners to build a commercially available Switchlade. When available, we hear that a Switchlade may cost somewhere close to $1000.       

The ides reminds me of the ridiculously Optimus Maximus keyboard from Art Lebedev, which uses 113 48x48 LED displays for its keys and still sells for $2400. Art Lebedev announced in mid-2009 that it would soon be selling a new version of an LED keyboard, called the Popularis, for less than $1000 by the end of 2009, but there hasn't been much news from Art Lebedev about that keyboard.