This laptop is the first of its kind running an Atom processor with this kind of advanced functionality, said David Daoud, an analyst at IDC. It is a sign that Atom-based devices are coming of age, and users looking for more functionality than what a netbook offers could adopt this ultramobile PC.

In an economic downturn, a PC with a low-cost Atom chip also could be more attractive over expensive alternatives, he said.

"That processor provides opportunity for reduced cost and cost avoidance during tough economic times," Daoud said.

Atom shipments are expected to witness healthy growth through the economic slowdown, IDC said in a study released on Monday. Atom shipments were good in the third quarter, totaling around 5 million units, IDC said.

For a tablet PC, the LifeBook U820 has an interesting price point, though the Atom processor's real appeal lies in its power savings over Intel's higher-end Celeron and Core processors, said Nathan Brookwood, principal analyst at Insight 64.