Will convertible tablets replace laptops?
When the iPad made its debut in 2010, some consumers thought it was a bridge between smartphones and laptops. At the time, tablets were known for their mobility, but also their distinct lack of computing power. In the last few years, the mobile devices have gained functionality, and they now rival many laptops in terms of available features. With the rise of ultrabooks and other slim computer models, tablets and laptops have found themselves on somewhat equal footing. As manufactures shrunk their computers, they stripped away features like optical drives, and now the only distinguishing feature between the two devices is the built-in keyboard. That could be changing soon as convertible tablets become more popular. Windows 8 seems to have motivated manufactures to create hybrid gadgets that combine the computing power of laptops and tablets. With fully integrated keyboards, the devices could be the next step in personal computing technology and might replace laptops. Below are som...