The Lenovo Skylight: A Glimpse Into a Forgotten Future
The Lenovo Skylight is one of those fantastic stories I’ve been lucky enough to share on my channel. If you haven’t seen the video of me unboxing this rare, unreleased ARM laptop, check it out below—it’s a true time capsule.
Like many of my deep-dive videos, I gather as much information, research, and firsthand accounts as possible to tell the fullest story. But every once in a while, I stumble across gems that don’t quite fit the main narrative or deserve their own spotlight. This article is where I get to share those.
The Vision Behind Skylight
One such example is this interview with Peter Gaucher, which offers rare insight into the device’s origin:
Skylight is a device that was inspired by the user’s usage scenario. In 2008, we were considering a strategy for a new netbook-like device that was based on cloud computing. Recent smartphones not only have high processing power but also have long battery life. We thought that we could develop a device with a larger screen that still had sufficient portability and Internet connectivity by using this technology. In fact, many iPhone users say they want a larger screen for watching videos. In addition, many consumers, especially young people, no longer want a full-featured Windows-based PC. We looked for market opportunities and found that Qualcomm had a similar vision, so development began. The development concepts were: 1. High portability, 2. Good design, 3. All-day use, 4. Instant on, 5. No fan or HDD. These concepts could not be realized by netbooks based on Intel processors.
This wasn’t just a quirky experiment—it was a serious attempt to rethink mobile computing. Lenovo saw a future where ARM processors, cloud services, and sleek design could converge into something revolutionary.
Design That Dared to Be Different
For those curious about the design, I highly recommend watching my interview with David Hill. He discusses how the team, along with legendary designer Richard Sapper, crafted Skylight’s striking look.
It also had a lasting impact on further designs. The keyboard that appeared on Skylight was essentially the prototype of what would become the modern six row ThinkPad keyboard. You can learn more about that in this article.
A quick way to start a debate One thing that will get long-term ThinkPad users talking is the differences between all of the ThinkPad keyboards and which version is best. This can be a hotly debated topic with a lot of feelings, nostalgia, personal preference and use cases but there are some things I’d like […]
Tech Details and Limitations
There’s been interest from the Linux community about Skylight’s operating system. While I’ve identified the code base and the original developers, the system is heavily locked down—likely due to its demo-only nature. Accessing the SanDisk chips under the keyboard might be possible, but documenting the OS is beyond my current skill set.
The swollen battery may be replaceable. Given that the unit is not completely sealed in plastic and the construction details are on a sticker on the membrane that makes up part of the casing, the battery can very likely be rebuilt. Since the battery is already in a ‘damaged’ state, this might be something worth trying down the road.
The Smartbook That Never Was
Skylight wasn’t alone. Around the same time, other manufacturers were experimenting with ARM-based smartbooks—HP’s Compaq Airlife 100 and Toshiba’s AC100 come to mind. However, none of them managed to surpass niche releases or demo stages.
While it may have been an idea ahead of its time, it got journalists of the day discussing the possibilities. Brian Barrett, in an article, stated that customers would never get to decide for themselves if they wanted a smartbook, as it died before it hit the market.
What’s vexing is that it’s starting to look as if the broad consumer market will never really get a chance to decide for itself whether it wanted smartbooks. Third-party delays and a commanding tablet lead decided for them. The smartbook example tells we’re at a point where the industry can only stand one revolutionary device at a time. And frankly, that feels more like a coup.
Final Thoughts
The Lenovo Skylight may never have reached consumers, but its story still resonates. It’s a reminder that innovation doesn’t always follow a straight path—and that sometimes, the most fascinating devices are the ones that never got their moment in the spotlight. I’m grateful to have shared this glimpse into what could have been, and I hope it inspires others to keep digging, keep documenting, and keep celebrating the forgotten corners of tech history. If you’ve got stories, memories, or even your own rare devices, I’d love to hear about them in the comments. Until next time—stay curious.
For years, it’s been an open secret among tech enthusiasts that a used ThinkPad is one of the best values in computing. While you may not be on the bleeding edge of technology, a pre-owned ThinkPad is often far more durable and feature-rich than a brand-new consumer-grade machine you’d find at a big box store. As these machines complete their first life cycle, they still have plenty to give and can handle everything the average person requires from a PC. Between their legendary reliability and robust build quality, customers can often save a significant amount, getting a premium experience for a fraction of the cost.
Today, Lenovo is stepping into this space with the announcement of its new “Lenovo Certified Refurbished” program, a move that looks to bring some of that pre-owned market in-house.
What makes this program stand out is the Lenovo-backed warranty bundled with every device. This is a game-changer for many customers. Often, when I help people find devices, they are hesitant about used products, seeing them as immediately inferior. The term “refurbished” has earned a bad reputation over the years, much of it deserved. However, Lenovo’s commitment to quality and support may convince people who would never consider a used device to explore the savings and peace of mind this program offers.
A few other highlights are that all PCs in the program are Windows 11-capable. They will be rated in terms of condition as either Premium, Good or Standard. A one-year warranty is applied as standard with an optional three-year warranty extension.
I had a hunch that Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 was heading for the “withdrawn” list, especially as I watched the available models dwindle on their website. A quick check of the PSREF page’s withdrawn section confirmed it: both the original X1 Fold and the X1 Fold 16 are officially discontinued. That means they’re no longer for sale or in production.
Years ago, I had the opportunity to test a pre-production sample of the ThinkPad X1 Fold 16, and I genuinely enjoyed my time with it. If you’re curious to learn more about my experience, you can find a link to my in-depth article and a video playlist below:
The Folding Machine Folding devices, even years after being introduced are somewhat of an oddity. I have been the first person I know to own or handle any and I cannot recall seeing one in public at the end of 2022 and the owners I met in 2023 I could count on one hand. I […]
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Now, this wasn’t going to be a machine for everyone. But for me, someone who appreciates compact and smaller devices that don’t need a ton of computing power, it was a delight. For context, I’ve been daily driving a ThinkPad X1 Nano G1 since its release, so I have a soft spot for light and compact machines. I don’t need loads of power on the go, and if I do, I’ve got other devices for that. I completely get that not everyone has multiple devices or even wants to carry them, though.
The Challenges of Innovation
The withdrawal isn’t entirely surprising, especially considering the complexities involved in bringing such a device to market. I once spoke to Luis Hernandez, former VP of Lenovo Commercial Product Solution Development, who shed some light on the hurdles. He emphasized how challenging it was to manufacture, yet he firmly believed in its potential:
I’m telling you that the X1 Fold 16, it’s a great product but it was hard, it was hard to do. You can imagine foldables are very hard to do in the phone industry, you can imagine in the PC, they’re bigger screens so it’s even more challenging, but I love that product. I think that product is revoluntionary and eventually it will be a big, a big part of the computer notebook segment in the future as we figure out ways of… bringing the price down as we drive more volume.
While I never got my hands on a production version of the X1 Fold 16 Gen 1, the factors that likely limited its widespread appeal are clear. The high cost and unique form factor inherently narrowed its potential audience. Making the keyboard and pen optional accessories in many markets further inflated the price, pushing it even further out of reach for many. After all, if you’re investing that much, you likely want the complete experience, not just the base model.
Furthermore, the specifications were already a generation behind upon release, and without any specific AI features to market as the AI boom began, it quickly felt dated. The choice of a fanless cooling solution, while enabling a sleek design, meant performance suffered under heavy loads—a clear trade-off that prioritized portability and quiet operation over raw computing power. Given the intended audience, however, this decision makes sense; it was never designed to be a workstation.
If Lenovo does pursue another iteration, I believe a few key changes would be essential based on what I’ve seen people say about the production version:
Stronger CPU and Improved Thermals: A more robust processor, coupled with a better cooling solution or thermal management, would be crucial to boost performance and reduce throttling.
Inclusive Accessories: The keyboard and pen should be included in the box, not sold as separate, costly accessories.
Integrated Stylus Storage: Exploring ways to store the stylus within the device would enhance convenience and portability.
Targeted Use Cases: Continue to deeply study the market to identify the best fit for this unique device and offer specific, compelling use cases that resonate with that audience.
Cost reduction: Much like when the ThinkPad X300 was released, there was a desire to make it more cost-effective. This ultimately led to the creation of the X1 and then the X1 Carbon. The same thinking needs to apply here.
New Patents Emerge
At the time of writing this article, I combed through the US Patent Public Search to see what clues of the future may be waiting. I found an interesting patent (US 20250231595 A1), filed on November 4, 2024, and published a few days ago (July 17, 2025), which details a display assembly for a foldable PC.
Images from Patent US-20250231595-A1
Another patent (US 12363843 B2) was published July 15, 2025, that details a hinge for a foldable device that is a possible match for the mechanism shown in Figure 5 above. Both of these recent patents support a previously submitted patent (US 20250028363 A1). The mechanisms in these latest patents are somewhat similar to patents filed years prior, but there are some key changes that suggest ongoing refinement. The most recent one has an emphasis on additional components that act as a buffer and support behind the display to manage bending stress.
Before we all get too excited, patents do not tell the whole story. Years ago, there was a new revised patent for the butterfly keyboard that hasn’t gone anywhere… yet.
This article has been updated on 27 June 2021 to include new information. It appears last year Lenovo filed a new Butterfly-style keyboard patent and it was recently approved earlier this month by the US Patent Office. You can look it up on your own using the #11,029,723 and unsurprisingly it references John Karidis’ existing […]
It isn’t uncommon for an idea or device to receive a patent and have it not produced. Another possible example of this is a patent (US 12332690 B2) approved at the same time as the ones above for a tablet that attaches to the back of a laptop A cover.
What’s Next for Foldable ThinkPads?
The journey of the ThinkPad X1 Fold series highlights the inherent challenges and immense potential within the foldable PC market. Its discontinuation underscores the need for continued refinement. However, Lenovo isn’t giving up on this innovative form factor. The recent patent filings for display assemblies and hinge mechanisms strongly suggest they are actively exploring how to build a better, more reliable, and ultimately more compelling foldable PC.
What are your thoughts on the future of foldable PCs? Do you think they’ll eventually become a mainstream option, or remain a niche product?
ThinkPads are synonymous with their sleek black design. This was a conscious design choice by Richard Sapper, who famously wanted the ThinkPad to stand out from the ‘hideous beige’ computers of its era, envisioning it like a sleek, black ‘cigar box’ that revealed its complexity only when opened.
Back in the beginning, there were, in fact, white or beige ThinkPad laptops for specific markets. For example, the ThinkPad 700C has beige or white variants for the German market. So while some media outlets are calling this announcement the “first white ThinkPad”, this is not accurate.
If you want to learn more about this, I have a comprehensive article covering the subject of the originals.
Update: This article was updated on March 18, 2023 thanks to the help of Dan Basterfield who worked for IBM UK PC Company. His knowledge has helped increase the overall accuracy of this article. ThinkPad enthusiasts will likely know that at the very beginning of the history of ThinkPad, black was not the only colour used […]
Fast forward to today, and Lenovo China has announced what is called “White Moonlight,” which is a limited edition run of the ThinkPad X9 in what they call “moonlight white.”
The buzz began early this July, as ThinkPad’s official account on Weibo teased ‘White Moonlight’ with intriguing images of a watch and a violin, Other images were added later, leading up to the announcement.
“The resonance of soul and art is the original color of white and the pure excellence of 7.11🤍The white moonlight appears for the first time. Thousands of refinements are made, and the ultimate presentation is unique and ingenious, and it is inherited from the same source”
“The romance of time and space begins with the precision of this second and is loyal to the next second. 7.11 is coming as promised🤍The white moonlight appears for the first time, carving time to the extreme, showing the exact difference of precision “
Earlier this month, the website videocardz.com believed this was the launch of new white ThinkPad models. They included a mockup of an image that appears to combine elements of the two images above with what appears to be white ThinkPad X9 units. Turns out they were correct.
Over the last few days, thanks to media credentials, I’ve been bombarded with CES 2025 information. Unfortunately, given when the media dates fell, I couldn’t attend in person. Perhaps next year. Lenovo presented an interesting showing this year in the sense that there weren’t many groundbreaking show-stoppers. That being said, here are a few highlights […]
This will be a limited edition run called the Yuanqi Edition (Yuanqi is a term used in Traditional Chinese Medicine), which is the first of the limited moonlight white machines being potentially planned. With black keys on the keyboard and a stark white and clean finish, it prompts an interesting question: Is Lenovo China positioning this model to aesthetically challenge Apple’s MacBook in the domestic market?
Machiine translated promotional image.
Original Promotional Image. Lenovo China.
For those concerned that this marks a permanent shift away from the ThinkPad’s core design philosophy, don’t worry. Lenovo China has a well-established history of releasing unique, regionally-focused machines that don’t always see an international launch. This strategy allows them to experiment with new features, designs, or market segments tailored specifically to Chinese consumer preferences, without necessarily impacting their global product lines. That isn’t new. The ThinkPad Neo 14 is a great example.
While the ‘White Moonlight’ ThinkPad X9 is undeniably sleek and fascinating, it raises an interesting debate about tradition versus innovation in design. Personally, while I appreciate the novelty and elegance of the ‘moonlight white’ finish, I still find myself gravitating towards the classic, professional, and timeless black ThinkPad. Its understated power and iconic design remain, for me, the true essence of what a ThinkPad represents.
The TrackPoint may leave ThinkPad one day, but it isn’t today.
The Background
For those of you following CES and Lenovo’s product lineup, the ThinkPad X9 got people talking. In a previous article, I covered how journalists compared it to Apple’s design language.
Over the last few days, thanks to media credentials, I’ve been bombarded with CES 2025 information. Unfortunately, given when the media dates fell, I couldn’t attend in person. Perhaps next year. Lenovo presented an interesting showing this year in the sense that there weren’t many groundbreaking show-stoppers. That being said, here are a few highlights […]
The big question was, of course, where was the TrackPoint? A leak before CES sparked much speculation about this machine, which was branded a ThinkPad but was missing one of its most iconic features. Again, I covered this story in a previous article.
The Situation So let’s get this out of the way. Leaked images are floating ahead of CES 2025 showcasing a device called the Lenovo ThinkPad X9. This ThinkPad does not have a TrackPoint. ThinkPad X9 14/15 pic.twitter.com/2WXGyxJl9h — WalkingCat (@_h0x0d_) December 24, 2024 Several news outlets have picked up the story, including Notebook Check, one […]
There have been ThinkPad devices in the past that have deviated from the core design philosophy, even so much to not have the TrackPoint. Some of the original machines didn’t have it either such as the tablet computers like the ThinkPad 710T and 730T. Other models like the ThinkPad 220 featured a trackball of sorts and the ThinkPad 300 also did not have a TrackPoint. Several other tablets like the ThinkPad Helix 2 and Tablet 10 featured keyboards in their lineup that did not have a TrackPoint.
All that to say, what the ThinkPad X9 has done is not the first time we have seen a ThinkPad without a TrackPoint, but it has been a while and it was a surprise all the same. I am a huge TrackPoint user and it is one of the essential components of why I use a ThinkPad.
New Information
Here is where things get interesting and special thanks to Saoto on X/Twitter for posting this article, thus bringing it to my attention. Long-time viewers of the channel will recognize the name as the person who makes custom 3D-printed TrackPoint caps.
In an article published by PC Watch Japan on January 14, 2025, Tsukamoto Yasumichi, Executive Vice President and Head of Development at Lenovo Japan was interviewed about the ThinkPad X9. There was some significant messaging in this interview that I am surprised was not communicated during CES regarding their goals for the X9.
The author, Kazuki Kasahara, who should be praised for their direct journalism, asks outright about the TrackPoint:
“The ThinkPad X9 is a product primarily targeted at customers who have not been ThinkPad customers until now. For example, it is a product that was planned and designed in the hope that customers who are familiar with other companies’ products will recognize the basic value of ThinkPad, such as high productivity and robustness, and consider it as an option when they switch to ThinkPad. In that case, we thought that it would be better for customers to have a larger click pad than the TrackPoint, so we decided to remove the TrackPoint.”
The naming conventions are also cleared up and I think the explanation that Tsukamoto provides is an excellent one.
“The ThinkPad X9 brand name was chosen to indicate that it is the polar opposite of the ThinkPad X1. If the ThinkPad X1 was the flagship product for existing ThinkPad customers, then the ThinkPad X9 is the flagship product for new customers,”
I think many fans of ThinkPad and its traditional design would agree with Tsukamoto’s assessment that the X9 is indeed the polar opposite of the X1. While many will still not agree with it being called a ThinkPad given how far it strays from expectations, if the X9 helps more people and companies get introduced to what many have come to appreciate about the iconic brand, then maybe it will pay off.
Tsukamoto seems to be aware of the stir that the X9 caused and Kasahara asked an important question about the TrackPoint’s future:
“Traditional ThinkPad models, such as the X1 series, P series, T series, X series, and L series, which are aimed at existing customers, will continue to be equipped with TrackPoint.”
If you want to hear more about the development of the ThinkPad X9, consider watching Kevin Beck’s sit down with Tsukamoto which was published on YouTube a few days ago.
Over the last few days, thanks to media credentials, I’ve been bombarded with CES 2025 information. Unfortunately, given when the media dates fell, I couldn’t attend in person. Perhaps next year.
Lenovo presented an interesting showing this year in the sense that there weren’t many groundbreaking show-stoppers. That being said, here are a few highlights that did catch my attention.
Some Firsts: Rolling Screens and CUDs
This rollable screen concept appears to be releasing as the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6. While the idea of a rolling or expanding screen intrigues me, I am unsure what problem this solution solves. It may very well be one of those things that you need to see and use to understand the application. Unlike the Yoga Slim and Yoga Book 9i below, this ThinkBook does not have a product page or pricing information but many outlets report a spring launch at a hefty $3,500 price tag.
The Yoga Slim 9i has indeed some slim display bezels (98% screen-to-body ratio) but what I found catching my attention was the CUD (Camera Under Display). You still have the bump at the top to hold the higher resolution camera that people now demand in a post-pandemic world, which I’m not opposed to given the function it provides. The top cover being made from glass has me worried that it might be challenging to keep looking new. These will start at $1,759.99 USD in February 2025.
Yoga Book 9i Continues
It is good to see that this dual-screen device did well enough to earn it another generation. I saw one of these in person when I went to Lenovo TechWorld 23 and seeing it in the flesh and speaking to the person using it helped me understand why they enjoyed the device. Pricing for this new generation starts at $1,999 USD being available in May 2025. I wonder if this means one day we might see a ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 2; that would be something I’d like to see as it was a lot of fun to test one of the prototypes.
The Folding Machine Folding devices, even years after being introduced are somewhat of an oddity. I have been the first person I know to own or handle any and I cannot recall seeing one in public at the end of 2022 and the owners I met in 2023 I could count on one hand. I […]
The ThinkPad X9
For many of you who follow me, this is the elephant in the room. ThinkPads, generally speaking, follow a certain design language. They are generally dark colours, more specifically available in black and have traditionally featured a TrackPoint. To get technical, there were devices branded ThinkPad way back like the 710T and 730T ( If you want to see a wonderful restoration of one of these devices or other cool things, you should check out polymatt’s channel on YouTube) that were tablet computers that had no keyboard and, therefore no TrackPoint. Other machines like foldable tablets and Z series have also strayed from these cornerstones over the years.
Back to the main event. The ThinkPad X9 was leaked ahead of CES 2025 and I covered some thoughts on this in an earlier article:
The Situation So let’s get this out of the way. Leaked images are floating ahead of CES 2025 showcasing a device called the Lenovo ThinkPad X9. This ThinkPad does not have a TrackPoint. ThinkPad X9 14/15 pic.twitter.com/2WXGyxJl9h — WalkingCat (@_h0x0d_) December 24, 2024 Several news outlets have picked up the story, including Notebook Check, one […]
There is some neat technology in the ThinkPad X9 including its cooling system, the haptic TrackPad and more. The big question many people is why is this called a ThinkPad. Given what people have come to expect from the brand, I think this is a fair question. Several news outlets that are at CES 2025 and have spent time physically with the device mention very specifically it is two things “It is a ThinkPad” in one breath and then mention “Apple” at some point in the article. Historically, these comparisons have been made before but not so directly. It could also be a trend in technology journalism to compare everything to Apple. If you want some excellent coverage of CES 2025, I recommend Andrew Marc David’s channel.
“This ultraportable from Lenovo is indeed a ThinkPad, but it appears to bridge the gap between professional and consumer laptops—prosumer, if you will—dropping the TrackPoint device in the keyboard as a telltale sign.”
“Lenovo has unveiled two new ThinkPads: the X9 14 and X9 15, both Aura Editions equipped with Intel Core Ultra processors and slim designs. But what they don’t offer might be the most interesting thing about them: namely, Lenovo’s signature red TrackPoint. Instead, they use a haptic trackpad without the ThinkPad’s usual discrete button for a distinctly MacBook vibe.
No doubt, it’s a ThinkPad, through and through. It’s tested to MIL-SPEC 810H durability standards. It offers a Thunderbolt 4 port on each side of the machine, making it easier to arrange docks and displays to your liking. And the design allows access to the SSD and battery to facilitate repairs and replacements.”
It is a bit of a wonder to wrap one’s head around the possible decision-making process involved in branding this machine a ThinkPad rather than a ThinkBook, which design-wise, seems to share more in common. Part of me wonders if this is an attempt to avoid what Dell has recently done with renaming all of their PC products. For example, if Lenovo wanted to produce a premium laptop product, that would limit their established product lines. While IdeaPad, Yoga and ThinkBook are good units at their price point, ThinkPad is considered by many to be the most premium business machine Lenovo offers.
So what happens when Lenovo wants to make a laptop of equal quality to a ThinkPad, geared towards business customers and wants to do something different? Do they create a completely new premium line of business laptops or do they use one of their existing brands and establish a new series? Both have pros and cons.
This device in terms of specs, target audience and quality is too premium for the ThinkBook or IdeaPad range.
Creating a brand new product line entirely is likely more difficult to market to business customers and may make it more difficult to sell.
Using the ThinkPad brand, which is very well established, has risks as those expecting a specific design may be alienated by this design.
So do you create a new machine class, the X9 and put it under your premium laptop line or do you try and create a brand new product line?
The keyboard keys have a very subtle touch of what would be considered the modern ThinkPad keyboard.
I suspect this is why it is called the X9 and not part of an established ThinkPad line that features more historically recognizable features like a sleek black chassis and red TrackPoint. I believe this hypothesis is further supported by the fact they are releasing a series of X9 accessories rather than exclusively relying on the existing ThinkPad catalogue of accessories. The X9 branding is also present on the camera bump. It wouldn’t be hard to imagine that if the X9 does well, it could be its own product line separate from ThinkPad but of equal quality.
I do not believe that the X9 will set the trend for future ThinkPad design and I look at it like I would look at the Z13; a testbed that diverts from traditional ThinkPad design but has some of the DNA that makes them amazing machines.
Given the choice between what Dell has recently done with their brands, I’d rather have a ThinkPad without a TrackPoint than the brand-new Lenovo Pro Max Premium Carbon G13…
Dell has made a surprising and potentially controversial decision: to abandon its long-standing and iconic PC brand names. Gone are the days of the XPS, Latitude, Inspiron, Precision, OptiPlex, and G-series. All these familiar names will be replaced by a new, tiered system, leaving only Alienware standing as a distinct brand. Odd decision to go […]
The ThinkPad X9 will be available in February 2025 and starts at $1,399 for the 14-inch variant.
2024 has been a good year. While I was hoping to get more content out and share more with you, several things ate my free time for breakfast and it didn’t quite work out as intended. Despite that, the statistics from both YouTube and this website paint a positive picture. Views are holding steady and only a slight drop in subscribers per year. Funny enough, the number of uploads for 2023 and 2024 is the same.
Website statistics are likely a result of search engines and other bots combing the content and learning from what I write here. I wrote very little, likely as a result of doing a lot of writing for school, so doing it as a hobby was less attractive. My goal is to write more articles in 2025.
YouTube Stats for the year 2024.Stats for laptopretrospective.com
As has been my tradition, I will break down each month and pick a highlight for me.
January
January was a slower start to the year, but it had me feature the P53, which was capable of 128GB of RAM—a very impressive piece of gear. Workstations aren’t super common around here, so looking at one, especially a P-series, is always fun. I remain grateful for Rob Herman helping me frame what makes a workstation an important addition to a laptop lineup. As an aside, he was a familiar face I met in person at Lenovo Tech World 2023.
February
Speaking of workstations, this highlight for February came in a nice carrying case that helped sell the idea that this was true portable power. It isn’t often we see hard cases for laptops so this was fun to look at for that reason as well. The owner had a portable monitor tucked away in the lid making for a comprehensive setup.
March
March saw the release of the series of interviews I did with Luis Hernandez, a wonderful storyteller and all-around great human being. He worked for both IBM and Lenovo, retiring as the VP of Lenovo Commercial Product Solution Development. You can see the full interview below:
April
This month was mainly releasing the interviews I did with Luis in terms of main channel content. I did feature the L14 G2 which had more modularity than the T series of the same generation. Thankfully the T series now has just as much. Looking at a modern L series was still very educational.
May
A conversation with David Hill is always a highlight. In May we discussed the Lenovo Skylight project and David shared stories of its development and how Richard Sapper created this sleek-looking laptop that was never released.
June
This video may be close to the highlight of the year for me, being able to bring you a sealed Lenovo Skylight, open it and tour the operating system. Special thanks to David for locating it and for Tommy to help me get it to Canada. In terms of rare machines, this is pretty high up on the list.
July
Lots was going on in July but the video that stands out is releasing the full interview I had the pleasure of doing with Tom Hardy for the 30th anniversary of ThinkPad several years ago. The video contains just over 30 minutes of additional conversations and stories. It is worth the watch to hear some of Tom’s stories about the challenging and rewarding environment that design work brings.
August
August is a draw between two smaller laptops. The Toshiba T1910CS with the weird trackball attachment was a lot of fun to film and was the first laptop I filmed in my renovated film space. The runner-up is the ThinkPad 240X which was the first Japanese-exclusive ThinkPad I’ve featured on the channel and one of the smallest ThinkPads to be featured as well.
September
The IBM TransNote is a strange device with an even stranger story. One day I will release the video of the one I have in my collection, I promise. David Hill remembers working on it with Dr. John Karidis of butterfly keyboard fame on the ThinkPad 701C. It is clear to see why the machine didn’t make it to another generation but it clearly left an impact as many people I have interviewed over ther years reference this device.
October
My highlight here is an upgrade to my tool kit. To make a long story short, I follow David Hill on X/Twitter and enjoy his Design of the Day posts. One post was for a company, HOTO showcasing a flashlight. After a little digging, I saw they made a screwdriver kit and wanted to treat myself. I’ve been enjoying it ever since. Honestly, I should probably treat myself a little more often than I do. I imagine that the production quality would continue to improve if that were the case. The challenge is how to improve production quality without adding additional work and not impacting the speed of production. Being a one-person crew that does everything, every additional step needs to pay off and then some for it to be worth slowing things down.
November
This next highlight is thanks to Dan Basterfield, who is an amazingly knowledgeable and kind individual with quite an excellent ThinkPad collection. He digitized some service tapes like the one I did for the ThinkPad 701C and asked me to share them with the greater community. You can expect to see another release from this VHS collection soon in 2025.
December
The last item to bring up would have to be the LG-IBM video. Back in 2022 I covered the story of LG-IBM in detail on this website, but didn’t have a machine to present. This changed and I was able to create a video showcasing not only the IBM ThinkPad 570 but also probably the strangest rebrand in the IBM lineup at that point.
Update This article was originally published July 28, 2022. It has been updated to include a video showcasing an LG-IBM ThinkPad 570 that I featured on the channel. It contains references to this article in its originally published form. A Sticker If you are like me, you have spent some time looking through Hardware Maintenance […]
Thanks everyone for watching and reading and I will see you next year!
Several news outlets have picked up the story, including Notebook Check, one of my favourites. You can read their article here.
The bottom line is, we do not know a lot about this device, where it will be released or if it will be released. Concept devices are common at tradeshows like CES and TechWorld and many do not make it to production. The bendable phone I saw at TechWorld 23 is a good example.
I was able to attend Lenovo Tech World 2023 thanks to my participation in the Lenovo INsiders program. My travel and accommodations were covered and there was no cost to me to go to Austin, Texas. As part of my efforts to ensure 100% transparency, I am disclosing this information at the top of this […]
Another thing to consider is the odd nomenclature; X9. This does not fit within any existing product line-up which is encouraging that this might not be a mass rollout or an idea that would even stick. The TrackPoint is also part of the accessibility feature package that they advertise on the ThinkPad lineup.
Why does it matter?
There are many possible explanations for this but the reason this move is seen as strange to so many ThinkPad users and fans is, that this is one of a few features that make ThinkPad iconic and not just another brand. You can take the badge away and still know a ThinkPad is a ThinkPad based on the sleek black colour and the red TrackPoint present on the keyboard.
I do not believe this is the end of the TrackPoint, I will make that clear. That would be the equivalent in my mind of prying the Jaguar off the hood of the car (An expression I picked up from David Hill, Former Chief Design Officer & Vice President of Experience Design at Lenovo). That example might not be a good one to make any more with Jaguar’s recent advertisement that famously featured no actual car or Jaguar.
Jerry Paradise who retired from Lenovo in March 2024, said this quote during ThinkPad’s 30th anniversary celebrations as reported by PCWatch.
Q: Will the TrackPoint continue to be implemented in ThinkPads?
Paradise : That’s right. We believe that the TrackPoint will be implemented forever as long as ThinkPad exists. It is our promise to our customers, and we believe that it is an iconic part of the ThinkPad brand and part of the design.
As an aside, Jerry Paradise is on my wishlist of individuals to interview as his history with ThinkPad runs very deep. I imagine he has a lot of amazing stories he could tell. Perhaps one day.
What is the history?
The TrackPoint, an isometric pointing device embedded in the keyboard of ThinkPad laptops, was invented by Dr. Ted Selker while working at IBM Research in the early 1980s. He drew inspiration from research on mouse-pointing devices and hypothesized that a finger-operated pointing device integrated into the keyboard would be faster and more efficient than a mouse. Selker collaborated with colleague Joe Rutledge to develop the TrackPoint. They conducted research and experiments, discovering that a non-linear transfer function improved selection speed by preventing cursor loss. This approach challenged conventional thinking at the time and led to disagreements with other researchers in the field.
Several factors contributed to the significance of the TrackPoint:
Improved efficiency: The TrackPoint offered a significant speed advantage over trackballs and mice. Users no longer had to take their hands off the keyboard, saving valuable time and maintaining focus.
Space saving: The compact size of the TrackPoint made it ideal for use in confined spaces like bank teller stations, airplanes and other places where space is limited.
Accessibility: Users with shaky hands found the TrackPoint’s overshoot prevention algorithms particularly beneficial and only required one point of contact to manipulate the mouse cursor.
Brand identity: The TrackPoint became a signature feature of ThinkPad laptops, contributing to their brand identity and attracting a loyal following.
I’m very fortunate to have the history of the TrackPoint from the sources that were there when it all happened. I had the chance to speak to both Dr. Ted Selker and Tom Hardy and both had stories to tell about this iconic device that has been on essentially every machine to carry the ThinkPad name.
Why remove it?
I can think of a lot of reasons why people would want to remove it and I suspect that most of it revolves around cost. It is no secret that making room for the TrackPoint comes at a cost both financially and spatially.
Changing user preferences: As touchpads have become larger, more responsive, and feature-rich, many users have come to prefer them over the TrackPoint. The wider adoption of touchpads has led to some manufacturers prioritizing them over the TrackPoint to cater to evolving user demands.
Cost considerations: Including both a TrackPoint and a touchpad increases manufacturing costs. To reduce expenses and potentially lower the price of their laptops, a manufacturer might choose to eliminate the less popular pointing device.
Design trends: The trend towards thinner and lighter laptops has put pressure on manufacturers to maximize internal space. Removing the TrackPoint and its associated hardware can free up space for other components, such as larger batteries or improved cooling systems.
Competitive pressure: If competitors are successfully selling laptops without TrackPoints, a manufacturer may feel pressured to follow suit to remain competitive. This is particularly true if the manufacturer wants to appeal to a wider customer base who may not be familiar with or prefer the TrackPoint.
So while the reasons to remove it are many, we are still talking about one of the most visibly iconic features of any laptop brand in the history of laptops. That would be like taking one of the most well-known social media brands in history and renaming it. Alright, I promise to stop with the not-so-good examples.
Folding devices, even years after being introduced are somewhat of an oddity. I have been the first person I know to own or handle any and I cannot recall seeing one in public at the end of 2022 and the owners I met in 2023 I could count on one hand. I believe the general population is still trying to figure out where the folding device fits in their world and I completely understand the sentiment. For phones, it seems like an extra step to unfold your device to access it when we have grown accustomed to just pulling it out of our pocket and instantly having our technology ready for us. Thankfully Motorola sorted that out with newer editions of the Razr with a full screen on the exterior. The wearable concept they showed off at Lenovo TechWorld 2023 is also another example of this form factory gaining some legitimacy.
The portable computer of course has tablets that run operating systems that allow for differing levels of productivity but there are often compromises. Applications are centred around consumption, not production. Accessories are not designed with creation or productivity at the centre or if they are, the processing power for serious applications can leave many power users wanting more. There is also the issue of screen size and portability as many tablets prefer to keep a lower profile, perhaps to avoid comparison against their laptop counterparts. But what if a device invited that competition and tried to solve all these problems?
The Beginning
Enter the first-generation Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold. Announced at CES 2019 as the world’s first folding PC, the X1 Fold was a thought experiment that got the entire technology community talking. Understandably there were a lot of questions about how viable this brand-new form factor would be and I will admit to being one of those people who looked at it with curiosity, but also some skepticism especially the CPU configurations the original X1 Fold shipped with being so underpowered. The device was well built as a ThinkPad should be but there were worries about the size and power that the device was equipped with when it launched. The form factor also meant that the keyboard (not to mention the absence of the TrackPoint) that you could get with it was smaller than average which was noted by many reviewers at the time. It was clear that this was a challenging device to build and not many companies had the resources and innovation on hand to make it happen. For additional insights into some of the challenges, you might enjoy this short clip that Lenovo released in January 2020.
In many ways, it reminded me of the Lenovo ThinkPad X300. The X300 was Lenovo showing what it could do to push the laptop forward. It was, for the time, a bleeding-edge device in terms of specifications, design and size. If you want to learn about the importance of the device and what it set out to do, I strongly encourage you to watch my older mini-series, Project Kodachi. It will provide some insight into the conditions under which these devices are made and what the objective of their creation is on a grand scale. If you look at the machines after the X300, many trace their lineage back to that product. It made the Lenovo X1 Carbon line possible, one of the flagship models for the company and the brand. It was a halo product that would help launch many others and I think that is what we saw here with the X1 Fold Gen 1.
The Hype
While I might have been skeptical of the X1 Fold Gen 1, when rumblings of the X1 Fold Gen 2 were growing, I found myself very curious about what improvements were to be made. It was clear that Lenovo hadn’t given up on the form factor with this announcement but what had they improved? Was it just going to be a specs refresh or were they going to push the boundaries even further? When the teaser trailer dropped, I found myself going through the trailer with a fine-toothed comb along with anything else I could learn about it. If you want to see my efforts, consider viewing the article below.
Lenovo has been promoting this short trailer over the last few days and many believe it points to the teasing of a new X1 Fold. After taking a look at the trailer a few times and snooping around, here are some possible reasons to look forward to the new X1 Fold and some of the […]
The X1 Fold Realized
Through my participation with the Lenovo INsiders program, I was sent an early sample model of the ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 and I have to say that in all honesty, it met expectations and after using it for a few days, exceeded them in several areas. The packaging is unassuming and 100% recyclable. Once inside you are immediately greeted by the huge tablet, laying flat. It at first might be too big, but after folding it a few times, you realize the size is very important to its usability. 16″ (2560×2024, OLED Anti-smudge 600nit) unfolded in a 4:3 format means you can do anything you want on it with screen real-estate to spare. Once you fold it, you have a 12″ compact 16:9 format for everything else you need. The included full-sized keyboard with TrackPoint, stand and pen is also a welcome addition to the kit I was sent. There is a base model that is just the tablet and because of the size, you can get away with just using the on-screen keyboard if needed.
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 G1 fully deployed in landscape mode.
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 G1 in laptop mode.
Calling the X1 Fold 16 a laptop or a tablet isn’t accurate, it’s a system. That’s how you know this experiment has been successful because it has achieved a device that is everything those devices are at any time it’s required but without any real compromise to the user experience. I cannot say the same for other tablet-style machines that also have a keyboard accessory. The internals in the model I was provided were top shelf with a 12th Gen Intel i7 CPU, 32GB of RAM (LPDDR5) and 1TB of storage; everything you would want in a high-end ultrabook. Two Thunderbolt 4 and one USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports let you connect whatever you want with the correct adapter, dongle or hub. The two batteries (48 Whr plus an optional 16 Whr based on configuration) give you all day (10-11hrs) battery life for light and moderate tasks. Of course, you will want to keep the charger nearby for heavy lifting as that will tax the battery.
The hardware is impressive, no question. Hardware can be let down by clunky software if it isn’t up to the task. Thankfully, the experience with Windows 11 feels seamless. Logging in with the Windows Hello camera next to a 1080p web camera is the fastest I’ve ever experienced. The optional keyboard has a built-in fingerprint reader just to the right of the spacebar. Rotating the screen, adding the keyboard on top of the bottom half and having the magnets attach are also trivial and do not interrupt the productivity of the user.
Speaking of that keyboard, the TrackPad features a haptic technology where you can adjust the force feedback you get during its use. Good job from the team over at Sensel for producing this TrackPad while respecting the TrackPoint user experience. The TrackPoint buttons were not enabled by default but can be turned on with a quick click and you can adjust the feedback of the TrackPoint button area and TrackPad area independently to be two different experiences making it easy to tell where you are clicking from feel alone. Rounding out the experience is the introduction of the TrackPoint to the X1 Fold family and it comes with the same double-tap menu on the reintroduced Z series where double tapping the top of this iconic red cap gets you a radial menu you can customize.
While the device was delayed to make the improvements above, collecting and responding to that feedback was essential for a product that was going to wear the ThinkPad badge. A compromise here would be fatal for the form factor. As you can see from the images below, some of the testing I did seems to be visible in the report linked above. I would like to think in some small, very tiny way, that I was able to help make this device better. Regrettably, I have not had the pleasure of seeing any newer versions of the device so I cannot weigh into all of the changes and improvements that were made.
The Experience
So the software plays nice with the hardware and the hardware is functional; excellent. What is it like to use?
Coming from my daily driver, my Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano, the X1 Fold 16 is heavy and thicker but I’m completely okay with all of that. It looks and feels like a high-end journal that you might buy as a gift for somebody who is constantly writing notes in little books that go with them everywhere. The fabric-like textured surface that covers most of the X1 Fold 16 is excellent and wears nicely; no fingerprints to be seen. The rubberized Lenovo and ThinkPad X1 logos stick up and feel right at home. It doesn’t feel like any other device or even case for a device I’ve ever used and it gives a sense of quality and durability. The keyboard and stand are covered with an Alcantara-like soft touch fabric as well that you know will be kind to all surfaces it rests against.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 G1
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 G1
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 G1
While opening and closing the X1 Fold 16 takes a bit of getting used to, mainly due to the size and strength of the magnets, I wouldn’t want it any other way. It might have annoyed me at the start but I think that stemmed right from it looking so much like a notebook or journal I wanted it to open up just as easily. You quickly adapt and find different ways to open it when you do not have a surface to put it on first. All of your accessories: stand, keyboard, and pen all attach with magnets to the exterior of the device. The keyboard no longer lives inside so if you want to use it, it is an extra step to detach it and then place it on top of the bottom half of the screen.
The main modes that the X1 Fold 16 is designed to be used are with the tablet on the stand; either portrait or landscape or folded with the keyboard resting on the bottom half. You of course can also use the main device as a book or traditional tablet and leave the accessories packed away. I’ve also learned to enjoy opening the X1 Fold 16 and just using the onscreen keyboard or touch display for quick or casual use, or sometimes I will leave the device folded and use the Bluetooth keyboard beside it while it is folded and leave the stand attached to the keyboard. My eyes don’t seem to mind the crease and in some instances using the stand isn’t ideal.
The User
All this being said, who is the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 for? Is it for tablet users? Early adopters of folding technology? Artists, architects and digital pen enthusiasts? Lovers of ultrabooks?
The answer is all of the above but on different days of the week. If some days you need a laptop but other days you want a tablet and others want something in between, the X1 Fold 16 does exactly what you need it to do when you need to. Earlier I called it a “system” because it didn’t work in those other categories and I stand by that. Other form factors have flirted with the concept and even the original X1 Fold tried to achieve that but to me, this is the first real successful attempt. For many this device will be strange and not fit into their workflow naturally, especially if a standard laptop does everything you need. For those that have a more dynamic work environment that has constantly changing demands on their devices and changes to their workflow might be attracted to what the X1 Fold 16 has to offer. The key is each of these form factors has to be useful to the user or the ability for it to transform into that shape and serve that function will not be seen as value-added and will deter you from the steep entry price of ownership of the device.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 G1
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 G1
When I travelled to TechWorld 2023, one of my fellow INsiders had his own Yoga Book 9i there and while that device impressed me in person, it was clear that they were adding features post-launch to get it up to speed with expectations, which is not an uncommon occurrence. The hardware was ready, but the software is still being rolled out. I felt the experience with the X1 Fold 16 was considerably more complete in comparison even if some of the hardware was dated. In short, both products have their fans and their niches and I do not believe one is a clear winner over the other in terms of functionality and their intended audience.
The Future?
Everything it sets out to do, it does. Due to the high-end internals and cutting-edge technology, design and engineering of the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 G1, it will command a premium price point and that will mean that it isn’t the device for everyone, yet. Once the technology gets more affordable, I wouldn’t be surprised if this form factor catches on. I would daily drive this form factor, but the version I tested ships currently for approximately $5,000 Canadian without a sale and that keeps it out of my hands for now.
I do hope for price drops in the future and a G2 version with a newer CPU that is perhaps equipped with some AI tools to make this device sing.
2023 has been an interesting year for the channel. Quite a few things got accomplished and nearly just as many have been left in a state of completion that I was hoping were further along than where they are now. It reminds me of the quote: “Life is what happens when you are busy making plans.” I want to start by thanking all viewers and supporters of the channel this year and in years past. The comments, likes, conversations, DMs, Discord messages and more mean so very much to me. Special thanks to those of you who keep me in supply of material through borrows, donations and more. Knowing that this information is valuable to people lights a fire like you cannot imagine and I want you to know that I appreciate each and every single one of you. The events of this year and previous years would not be possible without you.
Regardless, there are a few things I wanted to highlight that happened throughout the year.
Laptopretrospective.com visitor and viewer stats as of December 17, 2023.
The first is just the overall steady growth of this website which serves as a hub for all things channel-related. It also is a repository for the articles I write in place of videos. The other purpose is to report updates or addendums to existing videos where it makes more sense to write it all down versus producing another video that may or may not be adequately discovered. Thanks to everyone who found this site through various avenues and shared the content. I hope it was and continues to be helpful to those who discover it.
#MyYearOnYouTube2023 stats from January to November 30, 2023.
YouTube numbers remained steady this year. Subscriber rates have been consistent throughout the year as have other metrics. Generally speaking, the channel experienced a 10% lull in most statistics compared to previous years. I suspect that is primarily due to a few busy months where I was unable to produce the content I wanted to when I wanted to. There were also a few things that shoved around my release schedule. Another interesting point for my channel is videos on average do much better about 6+ months after they release. That is to say, the videos get more views as they age, except for Shorts of course. Whether that is due to the algorithm or other factors, I’m not sure. I’m not concerned about the current process or content having an impact on this statistic as I’ve historically seen the videos pick up as the topic trends after the creation of the video; sometimes months, even years.
YouTube Studio statistics show that the majority of views are coming from older content.
I’d love to expand a few things with the channel but I’m also aware there are barriers. Time is one of them. The channel is a wonderful hobby that I enjoy but it isn’t a source of income, nor do I seek it out to be one or I’d be doing things very differently. My film space needs work and I have a few ideas but I also know there is a great deal I don’t know so that slows down the process. Editing and thumbnails is also a time sink. All that being said, I have dreams and goals but right now, as a team of one, that is challenging to achieve. The other worth mentioning is the budget. YouTube ad revenue brings in a few hundred a month which goes right back into the channel, often to acquire machines to film and the occasional gear for filming but I’m conscious about how I spend that money. Sponsorships that involve money do not fit the current model or goals I have for the channel and that of course introduces challenges but I’m okay with that. All that being said, the channel marches forward and I hope that you enjoy the content I can produce given my current limitations.
Please enjoy some of the highlights from 2023 I’ve outlined below and here is to an amazing 2024.
January
IBM ThinkPad 350C. This video currently is the oldest ThinkPad that functions in my collection and that I’ve featured on the channel. It was fun to acquire and get it ready to film. It also came with a carrying case and an adapter to let you plug it into a 12V car port.
February
February was quieter as I was deep into testing the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16. Lots of testing and filming happened this month which meant that resources were focused there and not on other areas.
March
Interviewing Dr. Ted Selker. Being able to connect with this genius was a pleasure. Learning about the development of the TrackPoint and his other efforts was amazing and I’m grateful for the time he spent speaking with me.
April
This month I was working on something that is still under wraps for now along with a few other videos. We shall see what the future holds for that project.
May
The Lenovo ThinkPad T430 line is probably one of the most diverse product lines ever fielded under a single-name designation. The article below discusses all the different experiments that occurred. It wasn’t going to be a video as the likelihood of having all those machines under the safe roof again is not high.
Few ThinkPads have such a strange line-up as what made up the T430 family. It contained several machines that prior to it and after that were unique. Out of all of the modern T400 series, there are more unique models in this era than any other. It seems like a lot of experimentation was happening […]
June
Keyboard Talk. I’ve written a lot of ThinkPad keyboards over the years and this article ended up being a summary of many thoughts I had on the subject. The bottom line is, there isn’t a bad ThinkPad keyboard. People will certainly have their preferences but I’ve learned to enjoy them all for different reasons.
A quick way to start a debate One thing that will get long-term ThinkPad users talking is the differences between all of the ThinkPad keyboards and which version is best. This can be a hotly debated topic with a lot of feelings, nostalgia, personal preference and use cases but there are some things I’d like […]
July
Project Monarch. I’d been wanting to talk about the IBM ThinkPad 701c for years. The challenge was twofold: getting a unit operational that I could film and collecting the information on the device. Both were difficult. Finding a working machine within the budget for the channel was tricky and ultimately happened due to collaboration with a viewer like you. Collecting information was something I was finding significant success with and that became its own barrier in a way. I kept learning more and more which meant I knew the full story was not in my grasp so I wasn’t ready to produce the video I wanted to make. Eventually, after years, I got to the point where I could produce the first video and be happy with it.
The goal is to produce more videos in this series as time moves on.
August
There is not much going on in August due to travel and school work. How dull right?
September
Revisiting the Lenovo ThinkPad X300 was something I knew I needed to do. The original Project Kodachi series was a critical turning point for the channel and I cherish that series and what it started with Think Design Stories and interviews in general. Over the years since Project Kodachi, I learned ever more about the X300 and knew supplemental material would be needed. That led to the creation of this article.
When IBM sold their PC division to Lenovo, not all was well with the iconic ThinkPad brand. IBM was losing money and wanted to get rid of the PC arm of the business for several years. ThinkPad was one of the many components that made the purchase of IBM’s PC Division desirable. Towards the end […]
October
Going to Lenovo Tech World was the highlight of October. This was my first in-person technology conference and a wonderful experience. I got to meet a lot of great people and see some awesome excellent technology. The article below contains all the details.
I was able to attend Lenovo Tech World 2023 thanks to my participation in the Lenovo INsiders program. My travel and accommodations were covered and there was no cost to me to go to Austin, Texas. As part of my efforts to ensure 100% transparency, I am disclosing this information at the top of this […]
November
The release of the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 G1. I was testing this for several months and had the chance to test two physical devices. It certainly had a longer development cycle than some machines but it was necessary to make sure it was a successful product launch. It did mean I was “sitting” on these videos for quite some time after they were filmed but I was thrilled to be part of this process and I hope it will happen again in the future.
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December
This busy month of real life kept me well away from my film space. It wasn’t exactly how I wanted to end the year but that’s the reality sometime. At the very least I wanted to write this article before the year’s end. I was trying to track down a rare ThinkPad to feature on the channel, one that I have been looking for since the first part of this year, the 755CV or 755CDV. I thought I had one and when it arrived, it became clear the whole top case had been replaced with a stock 755 lid meaning the most unique part wasn’t even present. Back to the drawing board.
