Microsoft, HCL launch world's cheapest laptop

Microsoft Corporation and HCL Infosystems on Friday announced a series of joint initiatives, including launch of world's cheapest ultra portable laptop and setting up of a centre of excellence, which will employ over 500 professionals.

Priced at Rs 16,990, MiLeap brand of HCL laptops with Microsoft Windows XP Home operating system is the lowest priced among the MS operating system powered laptops, the company officials said.

"There is a huge potential in the PC market as India is selling about seven million PCs as compared to 32 million in China. Through this laptop we mean to increase the IT penetration," HCL Infosystems, chairman & CEO Ajai Chowdhary said..

Microsoft chief operating officer Kevin Turner said that by altering its operating system for HCL's ultra portable laptop, the company has reinforced its commitment to offer the best and the latest technology to Indian consumers.

The companies also announced the setting up of a new Centre of Excellence, which will employ over 500 software professionals to create, design and deploy Microsoft technologies based solution frameworks across various industry verticals.