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Small is definitely big this year. HCL Infosystems has launched a laptop for only Rs 13,990. Slated to be the world’s cheapest ultra-portable laptops, the MiLeap would be available in two series, X and Y, at a starting price of Rs 13,990 and Rs 29,990 respectively.

"With a legacy of having pioneered India's first micro-computer, the country's first desktop PC and the first home PC, at HCL it's always been our endeavour to create technologies that touch lives," said Ajai Chowdhry, chairman and CEO, HCL Infosystems Ltd.

The X series would have both flash-based and disk-based storage options, with a Linux-based operating system. The most expensive model of the series would be available at Rs 16,990. The high-end Y series (from Rs 29,990-39,990) would have multiple navigational features such as touch screen, thumboard, stylus, keyboard and touch buttons, with Windows Vista (Home) as the operating system.

Both the models have network ports, are Wi-Fi ready, have the option for 'Data card' and are available with GUI-enabled user friendly Linux OS.

Designed using the Intel processor A110 and Intel 945GU express chipset, this energy-efficient lower power silicon design consumes less power, reduces thermal impact and gives an extended battery life.

Both series of MiLeap laptops will be made at HCL’s manufacturing facilities in Pondicherry and Uttaranchal. The company’s two plants have a combined capacity of two million units. “If the demand for laptops rises, we are also open to scaling up capacity by setting up another centre,” added George Paul, associate vice-president (marketing) of HCL Infosystems.

HCL commands about 7 per cent of India's laptop market and expects to gain a greater share with the launch of MiLeap, Chowdhry added.

At the end of the last financial year, India’s PC population consisted of a million laptops and 5.4 million desktops. Laptops are expected to double this year to 2 million while the number of desktops are expected to cross 6.25 million this fiscal, according to research firm IDC.

Weighing less than a kilogram, the MiLeap laptop has a seven-inch screen and is equipped with an Intel processor. HCL will start shipping MiLeap units in the last week of January, which will be available at all HCL retail outlets and distribution centres.