I got my hands on the prototype yesterday. There were some differences in the version they gave us to look at. It had built in GPS, a 1ghz processor, and 512mb of memory. They also mentioned it came w/ 40gb HD. It is supposedly upgradable to 80gb HD and 1gb of memory.
Its still too heavy, and it absolutely needs a pmcia card to give unlimited access to some of the cellular wireless networks. but is a much better option than lugging a laptop around to meetings.
Ane, if the price drops to $699 or less, I can see a decent demand for it. I would use it at meetings, seminars, portable gaming, video, music, and just to have on quick trips. Can't ask for more than full windows functionality. No cut down versions of Office on this(or even better OpenOffice), and it can use any windows software out there.

I would expect a better version of these to come out in fall 2006, but never can tell. I think its basically a Microsoft initiative, with the companies making a positive gesture for them.

the Q1 also lacks a built-in GPS system and WAN connectivity, limiting network options to Ethernet and 802.11AG

What does "WAN connectivity" imply other than Ethernet and WiFi?

I think efforts would be better spent at producing a retail $400 laptop that would be around year round insted of a black friday fluke. Also, pleas allow for user servicable vid card upgrades.

This samsung thing seems pointless to me, espeically at over a grand.

The review closes in saying that users will be "better off with a more capable–and keyboard-equipped–convertible tablet."

I think that sums up UMPC in a nutshell. They're a subniche aiming to replace a less-than-successful niche (Tablet PCs).

everyone repeat after me: Averatech.....UMPC.