Fujitsu launches flash-memory laptops

Fujitsu has launched laptops that use lightweight flash memory – like that used in portable MP3 players - instead of a traditional hard drive.

The release of new Lifebook laptops that can be ordered with up to 32Gbytes of Nand flash memory will give users the option of a lighter, more shock-resistant machine with 30 minutes’ more battery life and faster start-up times.

The flash Lifebooks are more expensive than ordering a standard hard-drive version, but Fujitsu is expecting around 20% of corporate users to request Nand memory between now and March.

The flash option is not expected to be taken up widely until Nand prices fall.