Sony Vaio Flip hybrid laptops launched in 13, 14 and 15 inch sizes

Sony has introduced its new Vaio Flip line of hybrid convertible laptops with a unique new hinge design that lets users flip the screen around and use them as tablets. Prices start at Rs. 94,990 for the Flip 14, while the Flip 13 starts at Rs. 99,990 and the Flip 15 starts at Rs. 1,04,990.

As manufacturers race to design ever-slimmer laptops that can also be used comfortably as tablets over the past year, 2-in-1 designs featuring detachable halves and double hinges have proliferated. Sony's latest hinge design allows the screen to be flipped over backwards and then folded back down over the keyboard. The company promises that users will enjoy a variety of new ways to use the Vaio Flip mobile PCs, and enjoy the comfort and functionality of a traditional clamshell laptop.

The Vaio Flip devices can be used as normal laptops, but with the screen flipped over, a user can share what he or she is working on with another person. While the user can work on any productivity task in laptop mode, he or she can make a quick presentation in viewer mode, and then close the lid with the screen outside to watch a movie or browse the Web using touch interaction alone.

Vaio Flip is available in three sizes with 13-, 14- and 15-inch screens to suit a variety of users and scenarios. All three models run on 4th generation Intel Core i5 and i7 processors. While the smallest model uses a fast solid-state drive, the two bigger ones use a hybrid drive design for both speed and storage capacity. All three models use full HD screens with Sony's Triluminous Display technology for image enhancement.

Sony also claims to have used several proprietary techniques to enhance sound quality. The devices also have high-quality cameras that can be used to take high-resolution images of documents.

The Vaio Flip 13 weighs 1.31kg and has a rated battery life of 7.5 hours. All three models come in silver, while the F13 is also available in black. The Flip 15 features dedicated Nvidia graphics processors. All three models come with backlit keyboards.

All Vaio Flip models have a one-year accidental damage protection warranty and buyers can add a two-year extended warranty for Rs. 999. As a limited-time introductory offer, Sony is giving away a pair of MDR-XB910A headphones fee with every Vaio Flip device. Buyers also get three months of free music downloads from Sony Music.