UMID takes pre-orders for $500 M1 - 3in "M2" around the corner

The tiny, Atom-toting UMID M1 we saw on Intel's stand at CES has made another appearance - this time along with an official announcement and some pricing info. It appears UMID is now taking pre-orders for two models - only currently available in Korea.

The first gets an Atom 1.1GHz processor, 512MB RAM, a 16GB SSD and a suggested selling price of £346 (by simple conversion), although pre-orders are being taken at a discounted price of a very palatable £297.

The second system gets a more standard Atom 1.33GHz processor along with the same 512MB, a boosted 32GB SSD and a built-in web cam. It'll be going on sale for £395.

Both run Linux, though word from Cnet is that international versions will be getting a healthier 1GB RAM, which should be good to run the optional Windows XP.

Importers such as Dynamism are lining up to ship them over here as soon as stock starts flowing. It also quotes the weight as a sprightly 313g.

Meanwhile, Slashgear reports on a "leaked" roadmap, indicating that an even smaller UMID M2 is on development - reportedly with a sub 3in screen. From the slide it appears to be a VOIP capable MID designed to compete with the current crop of touchscreen smartphones. We'll keep you posted.