Lenovo unveils updated ThinkPad 10 ready for Windows 10

New tablet comes with Cherry Trail Atom chips and targets business users

Lenovo has announced a business-focused tablet in anticipation of the official release of Windows 10, offering features such as a stylus for handwritten input, business-class security for data protection and a claimed battery life of nearly 10 hours.

Due to be available worldwide "later this summer", the ThinkPad 10 appears to be a refresh of a device bearing the same name from last year. The new model is designed for Windows 10 and will ship with it pre-installed once the latest version of Microsoft's platform is released.

Lenovo is aiming the new tablet at the mobile business user, claiming that it offers the performance needed for the most common workflows, including creating presentations, documents, email, video calls and more.

The ThinkPad 10 is based on Intel's recently launched Cherry Trail Atom Z8500 or Z8700 chips, which are quad-core parts paired with 2GB or 4GB of memory. Storage is 64GB or 128GB solid state drive, while the display is a 10.1in touchscreen with a resolution of 1900x1200 pixels and protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

Connectivity comprises 801.11ac WiFi, with 3G or 4G mobile broadband optional. The device weighs a relatively light 617g and has a built-in 32Whr lithium polymer battery said to offer 10 hours of battery life.

Pushing the devices' enterprise credentials, Lenovo claims that the ThinkPad 10 can be configured with optional dynamic TPM encryption, fingerprint reader or smart card reader. Lenovo also said it offers business-class service and support, such as custom models, asset tagging and laser etching, priority support, imaging and more.

Luis Hernandez, Lenovo's vice president for ThinkPad Business, explained that the ThinkPad 10 highlights the firm's focus on innovation.

"Now the most mobile of users can enjoy the best of both worlds with the convenience of a tablet and the function of a full-PC style experience without compromising mobility, connectivity and security," he said.

Among the optional extras available for the ThinkPad 10 at launch will be the ThinkPad Pen Pro stylus, a Folio Keyboard and Ultrabook Keyboard, tablet dock, protective cases and carrying straps, and more novel items such as an anti-glare film for the screen and a privacy film for confidentiality in information-sensitive environments.

Pricing for the ThinkPad 10 is quoted at $549. This equates to £360, but it is more likely to sell for £399 in the UK if Lenovo follows the usual formula.