Ultrabooks are the next evolution in the world of laptop computers, or so the manufacturers say. Various companies first manufactured this new product in the fall of 2011, though Intel developed the name. An ultrabook is a very portable, thin laptop computer. Most ultrabooks feature an overall design inspired by the MacBook Air. Ultrabooks are just as functional and easy to use as a notebook computer, but with the fashion and portability of a tablet. However, some questions still remain about this new product. Who are these products being designed for? Will their price be able to compete with the amazing laptop deals currently on the market? Are they truly the future of laptops, or are they destined to be a niche product.

Targeted Market
Manufacturers are marketing ultrabooks to a variety of different markets. From businessmen to baby-boomers, and stay-at-home-moms to students, they want everyone to purchase an ultrabook. Ultrabooks are being targeted toward anyone who wants the next technological advance. As such, they are higher-priced to fit in with a higher-end market. Manufacturers hope that the ultrabook will be the next technical device everyone has to have, targeting the wealthy or business travelers. This is how many products first debut, for example – flat screen TVs, touchscreen phones, and GPS systems. Slowly, over time, the prices will trickle down so more and more people can afford them. Even when these products have lower prices, many people will think of them as higher-end products, thanks to their debut.

Price
However, are ultrabooks priced competitively enough to compete in the current market? The MacBook Air, inspiration for ultrabooks, is actually priced lower than many current ultrabook models. Macs are already regarded as higher-end items than Windows computers. Why would somebody pay a higher price for something that is already regarded as lower quality? While stylish and innovative, price is something that will definitely hurt ultrabooks. Even for a wealthy customer, they just don’t seem to be a good deal. People looking for portability might just go for a cheaper tablet, or even an iPad instead. Manufacturers need to find a way to justify the price of these products. Being similar to the MacBook Air isn’t going to cut it, if the MacBook Air is cheaper.

Looking Ahead
Despite this fact, the future of ultrabook computers looks bright. The MacBook Air is a very popular product, and some people will enjoy having a Windows alternative. Just like the MacBook Air recently replaced the traditional MacBook at Apple, consumers will begin to notice ultrabook designs replacing notebooks in electronics stores. Of course, with this development, the price of ultrabooks will go down, which will boost consumer interest in them. Once the majority of ultrabooks are cheaper than the MacBook Air, they will experience great popularity. Even though they will still be more expensive than tablets, they will have more operating power and capabilities than tablets. Tablets are nice to have, but they will not be replacing more traditional forms of computers any time soon, just as laptops did not completely replace desktops.

=== About the Author ===
Jeff Piper reviews everything from software to the newest and hottest thing in technology. He recommends these amazing laptop deals.