Lenovo’s Yoga Slim 9i marks a significant evolution in laptop design by being the first to integrate an under-display camera (UDC). While UDC technology has existed in smartphones like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and RedMagic gaming phones, its implementation in a laptop represents a novel approach to maximizing screen real estate. This innovation allows the Yoga Slim 9i to achieve an impressive 98% screen-to-body ratio, eliminating the need for intrusive notches or pop-up webcams, resulting in a truly immersive viewing experience. While Lenovo acknowledges the historical challenges of UDC image quality, they are attempting to address this through a high-resolution 32MP sensor and a partnership with Visionary.ai, an AI image processing company, to enhance and correct image distortions. This ambitious approach reflects Lenovo’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of laptop design and user experience.
The core advantage of an under-display camera is the uninterrupted, full-screen experience it offers. The camera is subtly concealed beneath the display pixels, which become transparent when the camera is activated. This design choice caters to users who prioritize screen real estate for tasks like content consumption and gaming, offering a more immersive and less obstructed view compared to laptops with notches or thick bezels. While the camera remains faintly visible upon close inspection, the trade-off for a maximized display is often considered worthwhile, especially by users who prioritize screen space over frequent video calls. The experience mirrors that of some smartphones with UDCs, where the subtle presence of the camera is easily overlooked in favor of the enhanced display area.
Despite the visual benefits, the current limitations of under-display camera technology must be acknowledged. Historically, UDCs have struggled to match the image quality of traditional webcams due to light having to pass through the display pixels. This can result in washed-out images, reduced sharpness, and overall poorer performance in various lighting conditions. Lenovo’s efforts to mitigate these issues with a high-resolution sensor and AI-powered image processing are promising, but the real-world performance remains to be seen. The integration of a 32MP webcam signifies a commitment to improving image quality, while the collaboration with Visionary.ai aims to leverage AI algorithms to correct distortions and enhance clarity.
Beyond the innovative camera technology, the Yoga Slim 9i boasts a compelling array of features that position it as a premium laptop. The 14-inch OLED display offers a crisp 3840 x 2400 resolution, delivering vibrant colors and deep blacks characteristic of OLED technology. With a peak brightness of 750 nits, the display supports HDR content, providing a dynamic range that enhances details and realism. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, particularly beneficial for gaming and fast-paced content. Recognizing the vulnerability of displays to accidental damage, Lenovo has incorporated impact-resistant glass to protect against drops and scratches, adding a layer of durability to this premium device.
The Yoga Slim 9i’s design prioritizes both portability and performance. Its slim profile, measuring just 0.57 inches at its thinnest point, combined with a weight of 2.76 pounds (1.25kg), makes it a highly portable option for users on the go. Internally, it is powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, offering robust performance for demanding tasks. It can be configured with up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB of storage, providing ample memory and storage capacity for multitasking and large files. The incorporation of fast WiFi 7 connectivity ensures seamless online experiences. While the I/O is limited to two Thunderbolt 4 ports, their strategic placement on either side of the laptop offers convenient accessibility.
Lenovo has also paid attention to enhancing the user experience beyond the core specifications. The keyboard features a comfortable 1.5mm key travel, designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. The trackpad is larger than its predecessors, offering more space for navigation and gestures. A 75Whr battery promises reasonable battery life for extended productivity and entertainment. The combination of these features, coupled with the innovative under-display camera, positions the Yoga Slim 9i as a forward-thinking laptop aimed at users seeking a premium and immersive computing experience. The success of the UDC implementation will ultimately determine its broader adoption in future laptops, but Lenovo’s bold move marks a significant step towards realizing the potential of this technology.
