OLPC originally aimed to sell the low-cost laptops in lots of one million to governments in developing countries for $100 each. The group behind the $100 laptop has revealed the design for its latest computer aimed at connecting children in the developing world. However, the non-profit organisation had difficulty getting governments to commit to bulk orders.

The XO-3, as it is known, is a slim-line touchscreen tablet PC. The new design replaces the proposed XO-2, a foldable e-book that was first shown off in 2008 but has since been scrapped by the organisation. The XO-3 will eventually replace the original XO laptop that first went into production in 2007.

The new hardware will come in the familiar green and white livery, only this time it’s a tablet. The XO-3 will be showing its 800Mhz, 8.5-by-11-inch face in 2010, when hopefully the technology will exist to build what is essentially a giant iPod.

The innovative machines, which have been designed for use in remote and harsh environments, were designed for use by school children and featured a sunlight readable display and open source software. The concept shows a touchscreen, a camera, induction charger, and a carrying ring on one of its corners.

The 1.75 will merge elements of the current machines with technologies - such as a touchscreen - intended to be included in the XO-3.

OLPC recently said that the organisation would just focus on promoting its concepts and educational aims, rather than manufacturing laptops.

Nicholas Negroponte, founder and chairman of the group, said that he hoped that industry would now copy the design for the XO-3.

• Reference
• http://news.bbc.co.uk/
• http://www.wired.com/

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