Razer Switchblade Gaming Concept Packs Dynamic Keyboard [Video]

Gaming peripheral manufacturer Razer knows that CES wouldn't be the same without some slick concept to drool over, and their Switchblade gaming laptop is a great example of the breed. Switchblade is based around a 7-inch multitouch display and a keyboard that can dynamically change to show different legends and symbols depending on what title you're playing, complete with WiFi and 3G connectivity.Video after the cut

At its heart, Razer reckons the Switchblade would have a new Intel Atom processor, along with mini HDMI, USB 3.0 and audio in/out ports. Owners would be able to create their own custom keyboard layouts, which would change between games, and the keys could support static images as well as animations.

Unfortunately this is all just a concept, though Razer's press release does say they have physical hardware on show at CES 2011; you know we'll be digging it out as soon as we can. Still, the company does say it will be "working with selected partners to design and launch products based off the Razer," so something similar might eventually find its way to market.

Press Release:

Razer™ Announces New Mobile PC Gaming Concept Design

The Razer Switchblade powered by the Intel® Atom™ processor redefines Mouse/Keyboard Interface for mobile gamers with an all new ultra-sensitive multi-touch screen and dynamic tactile keyboard

Consumer Electronics Show, Las Vegas, Nevada – January 6, 2011 – Razer, the world's leading brand of high-end precision gaming products announced today the development of an innovative concept design, based on the Intel® Atom™ processor, bringing traditional PC desktop gaming to a portable form factor.

The new Intel® Atom™ powered concept model, codenamed "Razer Switchblade", brings an evocative level of design to gaming by replacing the traditional mouse and keyboard interface with an ultra-sensitive multi-touch screen, dynamic tactile keyboard, and an intelligent user interface that adjusts the configuration and key layout on-the-fly based on game content and user requirements.

The Razer Switchblade concept was created from the ground up by Razer designers and engineers, in collaboration with Intel; focusing on enhancing the entire user experience of playing the extensive PC game library on a handheld device.

"The main problem with mobile PC gaming so far is that no one has been able to port the full mouse and keyboard experience onto a small size portable solution," said Min-Liang Tan, CEO and Creative Director, Razer. "By combining adaptive on-the-fly controls and display, we managed to maintain the full tactile keyboard in a miniature computer while saving valuable screen estate."

"PC Gaming continues to attract innovation with rich 3-D graphics, high definition video, and life-like animation," said Brad Graff, director of gaming platforms for Intel's Ultra Mobility Group. "The Intel® Atom™ processor, combined with Razer's expertise in bringing gaming solutions to market, will help make it possible for consumers to have a powerful gaming experience in mobile devices."

"With our established focus on human interface devices, moving the mouse and keyboard experience to the next level was a natural step." continues Min-Liang Tan. "Razer isn't just about bringing innovation to the PC, but creating products that will change the future of gaming. The Razer Switchblade is one such product."

About the Razer Switchblade Concept

The Razer Switchblade Concept is a breakthrough portable gaming device model that allows gamers to play on the go without giving up the precision and control ordinarily possible on a desktop gaming system. Integrating a multi-touch seven-inch screen and an innovative tactile dynamic keyboard, the Razer Switchblade Concept delivers the full desktop experience in a netbook sized solution.

For more information, please visit: www.razerzone.com/switchblade

About the Razer Group:

Razer is more than just the world's leading brand in high-end precision gaming products, perpetually defining the gaming and technology space. Founded in 1998 in Carlsbad, California, Razer is driven by the ceaseless pursuit for absolute precision and high usability in a distinctive, aesthetic design that will give gamers the edge they demand. With labs and offices in seven cities around the world, Razer dedicates user interface research and development to bring cutting-edge technology to each and every product. We live by our motto: For Gamers. By Gamers.