Lenovo Yoga Book 9I Review

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Far from being a mere gimmick, this device provides a unique approach to multitasking, digital artistry, and entertainment, delivering a versatile platform that caters to users seeking more screen real estate and flexible interaction methods.

While its distinct design may not appeal to everyone, those who embrace its innovative form factor will find a powerful, well-engineered machine that stands out from conventional laptops, providing a compelling vision of what the future of personal computing could look like.

It’s an investment in a new paradigm of mobile work, challenging traditional norms and pushing the boundaries of laptop design with its thoughtful integration of hardware and software.

Product Name Key Feature Price Range Estimate Ideal User
Lenovo Yoga Book 9i Dual OLED Displays, Versatile Modes $2,000 – $2,500 Innovators, multitaskers, digital artists, content creators
Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 Dynamic Woven Hinge, NVIDIA GPU $2,000 – $3,500 Creative professionals, gamers, developers
Dell XPS 15 Powerful Performance, InfinityEdge Display $1,500 – $2,500 Power users, content creators, professionals
Apple MacBook Air M3 M3 Chip, Fanless Design, Long Battery Life $1,100 – $1,700 Students, everyday users, macOS enthusiasts
HP Spectre x360 16 Large Convertible Design, OLED Option $1,500 – $2,200 Business users, multimedia consumers, note-takers
LG Gram 17 Ultralight, Large Display, Long Battery Life $1,200 – $1,800 Travelers, professionals needing a large, light screen
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 Portable Gaming Powerhouse, Strong CPU/GPU $1,600 – $2,300 Gamers, video editors, engineers

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Table of Contents

The Revolutionary Dual-Screen Design: A Game Changer or Gimmick?

The most striking feature of the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i is undoubtedly its dual-screen design. This isn’t just about having two screens.

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It’s about how those screens integrate and transform the user experience.

Lenovo has dared to move beyond the traditional clamshell, presenting a device that can adopt a multitude of forms, each optimized for different tasks.

This innovative approach aims to address the common user desire for more screen real estate, without forcing them into a cumbersome multi-monitor setup on the go.

Unpacking the Dual OLED Displays

At the heart of the Yoga Book 9i’s appeal are its two 13.3-inch 2.8K OLED displays. These aren’t just any screens. Cooler Master Cmodx Motion 1 Review

They are vibrant, high-resolution panels that deliver stunning visuals, deep blacks, and excellent contrast.

  • Resolution and Clarity: Each screen boasts a 2.8K resolution 2880 x 1800 pixels, providing incredibly sharp text and detailed images. This is particularly beneficial for creative work, detailed spreadsheets, or viewing high-resolution media.
  • OLED Advantage: The OLED technology means each pixel emits its own light, leading to true blacks and infinite contrast ratios. Colors pop, and HDR content looks phenomenal. This also contributes to excellent viewing angles, crucial when using the device in various orientations.
  • Brightness and Color Accuracy: With impressive brightness levels and near 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, these displays are suitable for professional creative tasks like photo and video editing, where color accuracy is paramount.

Versatile Modes of Operation

The Yoga Book 9i leverages its dual hinges to offer a truly adaptable experience, moving beyond the simple tablet or laptop modes.

  • Laptop Mode Virtual Keyboard: When used as a traditional laptop, the bottom screen transforms into a virtual keyboard and trackpad. While haptic feedback helps, it takes some getting used to. A small physical keyboard can be placed on the bottom screen for a more traditional typing experience.
  • Book Mode: Held like a book, it’s perfect for reading e-books or large documents, offering two full pages side-by-side. This mimics the natural experience of reading a physical book.
  • Tent Mode: Ideal for presentations or media consumption, allowing both screens to display content to an audience or provide a larger canvas for viewing.
  • Scroll Mode: Stacking the screens vertically effectively creates a single, extra-tall display, fantastic for long documents, coding, or social media feeds. This maximizes vertical screen real estate, reducing the need for constant scrolling.
  • Tablet Mode: Folding it completely flat turns it into a thick tablet, though it’s less ergonomic than a dedicated single-screen tablet due to its weight and dual-screen thickness.

Practical Applications and Workflow Enhancements

The dual-screen setup opens up a world of possibilities for enhanced productivity.

  • Multitasking King: Imagine having your main application open on one screen and reference material, communication apps, or a web browser on the other. No more constant alt-tabbing.
  • Creative Canvas: For digital artists, one screen can be for the drawing application, and the other for tools, layers, or reference images. Video editors can use one screen for the timeline and the other for the preview.
  • Enhanced Presentations: Deliver dynamic presentations by having your notes on one screen and the slides visible to your audience on the other.
  • Seamless Communication: Participate in video calls on one screen while taking notes or accessing documents on the second.

The potential here is immense, but it does require a mental shift in how you interact with a computer. It’s not just two screens.

It’s a new way of organizing your digital workspace. Seauto Shark Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner Review

The learning curve for some users might be steep, but the payoff in terms of workflow efficiency can be significant.

Performance Under the Hood: More Than Just Pretty Screens

While the dual OLED screens grab all the attention, the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i isn’t just a pretty face.

It packs capable internals designed to handle demanding tasks, though its ultra-thin profile dictates some design choices.

This device is built for productivity and creative tasks, not heavy-duty gaming or intense video rendering, but it holds its own remarkably well within its intended use case.

Processor and Memory Configuration

The Yoga Book 9i typically comes equipped with Intel’s latest Core Ultra processors. Asus Dual Nvidia Geforce Rtx 4060 Oc Edition Review

  • Intel Core Ultra Series: These processors are designed for efficiency and feature integrated neural processing units NPUs for AI acceleration. This means improved performance for AI-driven tasks like background blurring in video calls, smart image editing features, and certain productivity optimizations.
  • Core Ultra 7 or 5: Depending on the configuration, you’ll find either a Core Ultra 7 or Core Ultra 5. Both are excellent for everyday computing, demanding office suites, web browsing with many tabs, and moderate creative work.
  • RAM: Configurations usually range from 16GB to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM. This fast RAM is crucial for smooth multitasking, especially when running multiple demanding applications across two high-resolution displays. For most users, 16GB is sufficient, but 32GB provides extra headroom for heavy creative workflows.

Storage Solutions: Speed and Capacity

Storage is another key aspect of performance, and the Yoga Book 9i doesn’t disappoint.

  • PCIe Gen 4 SSDs: It uses fast PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs, offering rapid boot times, lightning-quick application loading, and swift file transfers.
  • Storage Options: You’ll typically find configurations with 512GB or 1TB of storage. For users dealing with large media files or numerous applications, opting for 1TB is a wise choice, as dual-screen multitasking can often lead to a greater accumulation of files.
  • Non-Upgradable: Like most ultra-thin laptops, the storage and RAM are typically soldered onto the motherboard, meaning no user upgrades are possible after purchase. So, it’s crucial to choose the right configuration upfront based on your anticipated needs.

Integrated Graphics Capabilities

Given its slim profile, the Yoga Book 9i relies on integrated graphics.

  • Intel Arc Graphics: The Intel Core Ultra processors integrate Intel’s Arc graphics, which are a significant step up from previous Intel Iris Xe graphics. While not a discrete gaming GPU, Arc graphics can handle:
    • Light Gaming: Play less graphically demanding games at respectable frame rates.
    • Video Encoding/Decoding: Accelerate video editing tasks and handle 4K video playback smoothly.
    • Everyday Visual Tasks: Power the dual 2.8K OLED displays effortlessly, ensuring smooth animations and transitions within the operating system.
  • No Discrete GPU: Users needing serious graphical horsepower for professional 3D rendering, high-end gaming, or intensive video editing with complex effects will need to look at laptops with dedicated NVIDIA or AMD GPUs, such as the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 or Asus ROG Zephyrus G14.

Thermal Management and Noise

With two OLED screens and powerful internals in a thin chassis, thermal management is a key concern.

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  • Efficient Cooling: Lenovo has implemented an efficient cooling system designed to dissipate heat effectively. For typical productivity tasks, the laptop remains quiet and cool.
  • Under Load: When pushed with demanding tasks like video rendering or extensive multitasking across both screens, the fans will become audible, but generally, they don’t reach a disruptive level.
  • Performance Throttling: Like all thin and light laptops, there’s a degree of thermal throttling under sustained heavy loads to prevent overheating, which can lead to a slight dip in peak performance over prolonged periods. This is a common trade-off for portability.

In summary, the Yoga Book 9i offers a robust performance profile for its form factor. Corsair 2000D Rgb Airflow Review

It’s a workhorse for professionals and creatives who value screen real estate and innovation, rather than raw gaming power.

It handles everyday tasks with aplomb and can tackle moderate creative workloads without breaking a sweat, making it a truly capable machine for the modern mobile professional.

The Typing and Interaction Experience: A Leap of Faith?

The typing and interaction experience on the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i is where its innovative design truly challenges conventional expectations. Gone is the physical keyboard.

In its place, a virtual keyboard on the lower OLED screen, supplemented by an attachable magnetic keyboard and a stylus.

This requires a significant adjustment for users accustomed to traditional laptops. Eufy Video Doorbell Dual Review

The Virtual Keyboard: A Bold Experiment

Lenovo’s decision to go all-in on a virtual keyboard on the bottom screen is perhaps the most divisive aspect of the Yoga Book 9i.

  • On-Screen Layout: The virtual keyboard appears on the lower display, offering a full-size layout. It includes a haptic feedback system designed to simulate the feel of physical key presses.
  • Haptic Feedback: While the haptics do provide a tactile response, it’s not the same as a physical key travel. It feels more like a strong vibration than a definitive click. Some users may find it sufficient for short bursts of typing, while others may struggle with accuracy and speed.
  • Adaptive Features: The virtual keyboard can adapt to your needs, allowing for quick access to emojis, special characters, and even a virtual trackpad.
  • Learning Curve: Expect a significant learning curve. Touch typists, in particular, may find their muscle memory constantly battling the flat, glass surface. It’s akin to typing on a large smartphone or tablet, but with more sophisticated haptics.
  • Advantages: The main advantage is flexibility. You can dismiss the keyboard entirely to use the entire bottom screen as a giant canvas or content display.

The Detachable Bluetooth Keyboard: A Necessary Companion

Recognizing the limitations of a purely virtual experience, Lenovo includes a physical Bluetooth keyboard in the box. This is not an optional accessory.

It’s an essential part of the Yoga Book 9i’s ecosystem.

  • Magnetic Attachment: The keyboard magnetically attaches to the bottom screen, either covering the entire virtual keyboard area or sitting just above the trackpad section, leaving room for quick access to system functions on the lower screen.
  • Typing Experience: The physical keyboard itself is surprisingly good for its thinness. It offers decent key travel and a satisfying tactile response, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. It feels similar to other premium Lenovo ultrabooks.
  • Portability: It’s thin and light, easily fitting into most laptop bags with the Yoga Book 9i.
  • Charging: It charges wirelessly when attached to the bottom screen, ensuring it’s always ready to go.
  • Consideration: While effective, it adds another item to carry and manage, somewhat diminishing the “all-in-one” futuristic feel of the dual-screen setup.

The Lenovo Digital Pen 3: Unlocking Creative Potential

The included Lenovo Digital Pen 3 is crucial for creative users and those who prefer a more natural input method.

  • Pressure Sensitivity: It offers excellent pressure sensitivity, making it ideal for drawing, sketching, and digital painting.
  • Tilt Support: Tilt recognition allows for natural shading and brush effects, mimicking traditional art tools.
  • Lag-Free Experience: The low latency provides a fluid and responsive drawing experience, almost like drawing on paper.
  • Magnetic Attachment: It magnetically attaches to the side of the laptop for storage, though it doesn’t charge there.
  • Versatility: Beyond art, it’s great for note-taking, annotating documents, and precise navigation on either screen. This transforms the device into a powerful digital sketchbook or note-taking machine.

The Touchpad and Gestures

When the physical keyboard isn’t in use, the virtual trackpad appears on the lower screen. Asrock Z790 Pg Sonic Review

  • Virtual Trackpad: It offers a smooth surface for navigation, and while it also uses haptic feedback, it can be less intuitive than a physical trackpad. Precision can be challenging for some users.
  • Multi-Touch Gestures: Both screens support multi-touch gestures, allowing for intuitive pinching, zooming, and scrolling. These gestures are critical for navigating the dual-screen environment.
  • Smart Interactions: Lenovo has integrated smart gestures for the dual screens, such as a three-finger tap to bring up a virtual trackpad or five fingers to open a virtual keyboard. This reduces reliance on a mouse in purely touch-based scenarios.

The interaction experience on the Yoga Book 9i is a mixed bag.

The virtual keyboard is ambitious but will likely be a secondary option for many, with the physical keyboard becoming the primary input method for serious work.

However, the stylus integration and the sheer flexibility of the dual touchscreens make it an incredibly powerful tool for artists, designers, and avid note-takers.

It’s a device that asks you to adapt, promising a more versatile workflow if you’re willing to embrace its unique approach to input.

Battery Life and Portability: The Trade-Offs of Innovation

When you pack two high-resolution OLED screens and powerful internals into a thin, innovative form factor, battery life and portability become critical considerations. Hp Omen 16 2023 13Th Gen Core Review

The Lenovo Yoga Book 9i navigates these challenges with a decent balance, though it’s important to set realistic expectations for a device with such a unique display setup.

Battery Capacity and Expected Endurance

The Yoga Book 9i houses a 80Wh battery, a respectable size for a laptop of its class.

However, powering two vibrant OLED displays is inherently more demanding than a single screen.

  • Single Screen Usage: If you primarily use the Yoga Book 9i with only one screen active e.g., in traditional laptop mode with the virtual keyboard, or only consuming media on one panel, you can expect solid endurance. Under these conditions, it can typically achieve 8-10 hours of mixed usage web browsing, document editing, streaming.
  • Dual Screen Usage: Activating both OLED screens simultaneously significantly increases power consumption. When both displays are actively showing content and brightness levels are moderate, battery life will naturally decrease. Expect around 5-7 hours of continuous dual-screen usage for demanding tasks. For lighter tasks like dual-screen reading, it might stretch a bit further.
  • OLED Efficiency: While OLEDs are known for deep blacks that consume less power as pixels are turned off, their power draw increases significantly with brighter content, especially when displaying a lot of white or vibrant colors across two panels.

Charging and Power Delivery

Lenovo equips the Yoga Book 9i with modern charging capabilities.

  • USB-C Power Delivery: It charges via one of its USB-C ports, supporting USB-C Power Delivery PD. This means you can use a single charger for the laptop and other compatible devices, simplifying your travel setup.
  • Fast Charging: The device supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed. A typical 65W or 100W USB-C charger will be included, offering rapid replenishment.

Portability and Design

The Yoga Book 9i is designed with portability in mind, but its dual-screen nature makes it thicker than typical ultrabooks. Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga Gen 8 Review

  • Dimensions: It’s impressively thin for a dual-screen device, but it is noticeably thicker than a single-screen ultrabook like the Apple MacBook Air M3 due to the need to house two displays and a complex hinge mechanism.
  • Weight: Weighing in around 1.34 kg 2.95 lbs, it’s not the lightest 13-inch device, but it’s still very manageable for daily commutes and travel. The weight feels balanced, not cumbersome.
  • Build Quality: The all-metal chassis gives it a premium feel and contributes to its durability. The hinges feel robust and inspire confidence in their ability to withstand frequent adjustments.
  • Included Accessories: The fact that the physical keyboard, stylus, and folio stand are included and integrated into the design means you’re not carrying multiple separate items, streamlining the “portable workstation” concept.

Real-World Usage Scenarios

  • Commuter/Student: For a day of classes or commuting between meetings, the Yoga Book 9i should provide sufficient battery life for single-screen use, with dual-screen mode available for bursts of intense productivity.
  • Traveler: For longer flights or days away from power outlets, judicious use of the dual screens or bringing a portable power bank would be advisable.
  • Creative Professional: If you’re using both screens for demanding creative applications, plan for more frequent charging breaks.

Ultimately, the battery life of the Yoga Book 9i is a trade-off.

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It’s not going to set any records for longevity, especially when both OLEDs are blazing.

However, for a device offering such a unique and versatile experience, the endurance is reasonable, allowing users to leverage its innovative features for substantial periods before needing a power outlet.

It’s crucial to adapt your usage to optimize battery life, much like you would with any power-hungry device. Sony Wf 1000Xm5 Review

Connectivity and Ports: A Modern Minimalist Approach

In line with many modern ultrabooks, the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i adopts a minimalist approach to physical ports, relying heavily on Thunderbolt 4 for versatility.

This design choice contributes to its sleek aesthetic but might necessitate the use of adapters for users with older peripherals.

Thunderbolt 4 USB-C Ports

The primary connectivity backbone of the Yoga Book 9i is its array of Thunderbolt 4 ports.

  • Quantity: The Yoga Book 9i typically features three Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports. These are located on the sides, offering flexibility for connecting peripherals.
  • Versatility: Thunderbolt 4 is incredibly versatile. Each port can:
    • Power the Laptop: Used for charging the device.
    • Data Transfer: Support ultra-fast data transfer speeds up to 40Gbps, ideal for external SSDs or large file transfers.
    • Video Output: Drive external monitors, including high-resolution 8K displays or multiple 4K displays.
    • Peripheral Connectivity: Connect a wide range of peripherals, from external GPUs eGPUs to docking stations, which can then expand to include traditional USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, and more.
  • Power Delivery: All three ports support Power Delivery, meaning you can plug your charger into any of them.

Missing Legacy Ports

The minimalist port selection means some traditional ports are absent.

  • No USB-A Ports: This is a significant omission for many users who still rely on older USB-A flash drives, external hard drives, or peripherals. An adapter or a USB-C hub will be necessary.
  • No HDMI Port: Connecting directly to a projector or older monitor will require a USB-C to HDMI adapter.
  • No Headphone Jack: A controversial decision for many, the lack of a 3.5mm headphone jack means you’ll need to rely on Bluetooth headphones or a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter. This aligns with a broader trend in consumer electronics but can be inconvenient.
  • No SD Card Reader: Photographers, videographers, and drone enthusiasts will miss the built-in SD or microSD card slot, requiring an external card reader.

Wireless Connectivity

The Yoga Book 9i compensates for its limited physical ports with robust wireless capabilities. Hisense 75 Inch U8 Series Uled Tv 75U8K Review

  • Wi-Fi 6E: It features the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and less interference when connected to a compatible router. This is crucial for seamless cloud computing, high-definition streaming, and large downloads.
  • Bluetooth 5.2 or later: For connecting wireless peripherals such as mice, headphones, and the included physical keyboard and stylus. Bluetooth 5.2 offers improved stability, range, and power efficiency compared to older standards.

Real-World Implications

For users who have embraced the USB-C ecosystem, the port selection will be perfectly adequate, especially if they use a docking station at their main workstation.

However, for those with a multitude of older USB-A accessories, the constant need for dongles or hubs can become a minor frustration.

  • Home/Office Setup: A single Thunderbolt 4 docking station can transform the Yoga Book 9i into a full desktop workstation with multiple monitors, wired internet, and all your USB-A peripherals.
  • On-the-Go: When mobile, you’ll need to assess which adapters are essential for your daily workflow. A small USB-C to USB-A adapter or a mini-hub is often a wise addition to your travel kit.

In essence, the Yoga Book 9i’s connectivity is forward-looking.

It prioritizes the high-bandwidth, versatile Thunderbolt 4 standard.

While this means saying goodbye to some legacy ports, it positions the device well for future-proofing and streamlines the design. Gogcom For Pc Review

Just be prepared to invest in a few adapters if your current peripheral collection isn’t entirely USB-C native.

Audio and Webcam: A Surprisingly Strong Showing

Despite its thin and innovative design, the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i doesn’t skimp on the audio and webcam experience.

In an era where hybrid work and virtual meetings are commonplace, these features are more important than ever, and Lenovo has clearly put thought into delivering a quality experience.

Bowers & Wilkins Sound System

One of the standout features of the Yoga Book 9i is its integrated sound system, co-engineered with Bowers & Wilkins.

  • Speaker Placement: The speakers are cleverly integrated into the hinge mechanism. This allows them to fire upwards, regardless of the laptop’s orientation laptop, tent, or book mode, providing a consistent and immersive soundstage.
  • Audio Quality: The sound quality is surprisingly rich and clear for a laptop of this size. Expect crisp highs, detailed mids, and a surprising amount of bass. This makes it excellent for:
    • Media Consumption: Enjoying movies, TV shows, and podcast without immediately reaching for headphones.
    • Video Conferencing: Voices come through clearly and naturally.
    • Casual Gaming: Provides a more immersive experience than typical laptop speakers.
  • Dolby Atmos Support: With Dolby Atmos, the audio gains a sense of spatiality and depth, making the sound feel like it’s coming from all around you, enhancing immersion. This is particularly noticeable with compatible content.

Webcam and Privacy Features

The webcam on the Yoga Book 9i is a 5MP or higher full HD camera, a welcome upgrade from the typical 720p sensors found in many laptops. Hp Dragonfly G4 Review

  • Image Quality: The 5MP sensor delivers significantly clearer and more detailed video calls, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. This is crucial for professional virtual meetings where a clear image can make a big difference.
  • Video Resolution: It supports full HD 1080p video recording, providing a sharp feed for video conferencing.
  • Noise Reduction: Advanced algorithms help reduce visual noise, ensuring a cleaner image.
  • IR Camera for Windows Hello: In addition to the standard webcam, there’s an infrared IR camera that enables facial recognition for Windows Hello. This provides a fast, secure, and convenient way to log into your laptop without typing a password.
  • Privacy Shutter Virtual/Physical: While there might not be a physical privacy shutter on the webcam itself, Lenovo’s software often includes a virtual shutter or a dedicated hotkey to quickly disable the camera, ensuring privacy when it’s not in use.

Microphones and Noise Cancellation

Equally important for video calls are the microphones.

  • Dual Array Microphones: The Yoga Book 9i features dual array microphones, strategically placed to capture your voice clearly while minimizing background noise.
  • AI Noise Cancellation: Leveraging the NPU in the Intel Core Ultra processor, the microphones often incorporate AI-driven noise cancellation. This technology can effectively filter out ambient sounds like keyboard clicks, fan noise, or background chatter, ensuring your voice comes through crystal clear to others on the call.
  • Voice Clarity: This makes the Yoga Book 9i an excellent device for remote work, online classes, and virtual collaboration, where clear communication is paramount.

The audio and webcam experience on the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i is genuinely impressive, especially considering its form factor.

The Bowers & Wilkins speakers provide a rich listening experience, and the high-quality webcam and intelligent microphones ensure you look and sound your best in virtual interactions.

This attention to detail in multimedia capabilities makes the Yoga Book 9i not just a productivity machine but also a capable device for entertainment and communication.

Software and Ecosystem: Windows 11 and Lenovo’s Enhancements

The Lenovo Yoga Book 9i runs on Windows 11, which serves as the foundation for its dual-screen capabilities. Encrypto Review

However, it’s Lenovo’s thoughtful software enhancements and integration with the Windows operating system that truly unlock the potential of this unique hardware.

Without these specialized tools, the dual screens would be little more than two independent displays.

Windows 11: The Core Experience

Windows 11 provides the familiar and modern operating system environment.

  • Modern Interface: With its centered Start menu, rounded corners, and redesigned File Explorer, Windows 11 offers a fresh and aesthetically pleasing experience.
  • Snap Layouts and Groups: Windows 11’s built-in snap layouts are particularly useful for managing windows across the two screens. You can easily snap applications to different sections of each screen or even span an application across both displays. Snap groups allow you to remember and quickly restore your preferred multi-window layouts.
  • Touch Optimizations: Windows 11 has improved touch gestures and a more tablet-friendly interface, which is beneficial when using the Yoga Book 9i in tablet or book mode.
  • Widgets and Microsoft Teams Integration: These features enhance productivity and communication, relevant for a device aimed at multitaskers.

Lenovo’s Proprietary Software for Dual Screens

This is where the magic happens.

Lenovo has developed a suite of utilities specifically designed to make the dual-screen experience intuitive and functional. Disney Illusion Island Review

  • Yoga Book 9i Interface: When you activate dual-screen modes e.g., vertical scroll mode or tent mode, Lenovo’s software often provides on-screen prompts or gestures to optimize window placement.
  • Smart Interactions Panel: Tapping with five fingers on the bottom screen brings up a customizable smart panel. This allows for quick access to the virtual keyboard, virtual trackpad, note-taking apps, and other frequently used tools.
  • Content Bridging: Lenovo’s software facilitates the seamless movement of content between screens. You can easily drag and drop windows from one display to the other, or use gestures to “throw” an application between screens.
  • Virtual Keyboard and Trackpad Customization: The software allows for customization of the virtual keyboard layout, haptic feedback intensity, and virtual trackpad sensitivity.
  • Stylus Integration Features: Specific Lenovo software enhances the stylus experience, offering dedicated note-taking apps, quick access to screenshot tools, and potentially OCR Optical Character Recognition features for converting handwriting to text.

Security Features and Bloatware

Lenovo generally provides a relatively clean Windows installation with some pre-installed utilities.

  • Lenovo Vantage: This essential application allows you to manage system updates, monitor hardware, adjust power settings, run diagnostics, and access customer support. It’s crucial for keeping the device optimized.
  • Security: Alongside Windows 11’s robust security features like Windows Defender, BitLocker, and Secure Boot, Lenovo may include some proprietary security enhancements or trials of third-party antivirus software.
  • Minimal Bloatware: Compared to some manufacturers, Lenovo tends to keep pre-installed bloatware to a minimum, focusing on useful utilities rather than unnecessary trials. Any unwanted software can usually be uninstalled.

AI Integration

With Intel Core Ultra processors, the Yoga Book 9i benefits from AI acceleration.

  • NPU for AI Tasks: The integrated Neural Processing Unit NPU offloads AI tasks from the CPU and GPU, leading to more efficient performance for features like:
    • Real-time background blur and eye-contact correction in video calls.
    • AI-powered noise suppression for microphones.
    • Potential for accelerated creative applications with AI features.
    • Smart power management.

The software experience on the Yoga Book 9i is a testament to Lenovo’s commitment to making the dual-screen concept viable.

Windows 11 provides a solid foundation, but it’s Lenovo’s custom software that transforms two independent displays into a cohesive, highly functional, and innovative computing environment.

The integration is generally smooth, though like any new technology, there’s a slight learning curve to fully master its unique capabilities. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Review

Price and Value Proposition: Is the Innovation Worth the Investment?

The Lenovo Yoga Book 9i sits squarely in the premium laptop segment, and its price reflects its innovative dual-screen design, high-quality OLED panels, and capable performance.

Determining its value proposition requires weighing the unique benefits against its cost, considering it’s not a direct competitor to traditional single-screen laptops.

The Cost of Innovation

  • Premium Pricing: Expect the Yoga Book 9i to start in the range of $2,000 to $2,500 USD, depending on the configuration processor, RAM, storage and any ongoing sales or promotions. This positions it firmly as a high-end device.
  • Components: The price is justified by:
    • Two High-Quality OLED Displays: OLED technology is inherently more expensive, and having two adds significantly to the bill of materials.
    • Complex Hinge Mechanism: The sophisticated hinge required to support multiple orientations and route cables between screens is a feat of engineering.
    • Intel Core Ultra Processors: These are cutting-edge, efficient processors.
    • Included Accessories: The fact that the physical keyboard, stylus, and folio stand are included and are high-quality adds significant value, as these are often expensive separate purchases for other devices.

Value for Specific User Segments

The Yoga Book 9i is not for everyone. Its value is maximized for specific user profiles.

  • Creative Professionals Digital Artists, Designers, Video Editors: This is arguably the sweet spot. The dual screens offer an unparalleled canvas for creative work, allowing tools and reference materials to be displayed alongside the main project. The included stylus is a major boon.
  • Serious Multitaskers & Productivity Enthusiasts: Users who constantly juggle multiple applications, research documents, or communicate across various platforms will find the extended screen real estate a huge productivity booster. It’s like having two monitors on the go.
  • Presenters and Educators: The ability to use it in tent mode with different content on each screen for audience and presenter is a unique advantage.
  • Innovators and Early Adopters: If you love bleeding-edge technology and want a device that genuinely redefines laptop interaction, the Yoga Book 9i offers a glimpse into the future.

Comparative Value

When compared to traditional laptops in the same price range, the Yoga Book 9i offers a different kind of value.

  • Against Performance Laptops e.g., Dell XPS 15: While the XPS 15 might offer a discrete GPU for raw power, the Yoga Book 9i provides unique screen flexibility and a different approach to workflow, prioritizing screen real estate over sheer graphical grunt.
  • Against Convertible Laptops e.g., HP Spectre x360 16: Standard convertibles offer laptop and tablet modes, but none provide the dual-screen multitasking and vertical stacking capabilities of the Yoga Book 9i.
  • Against Dedicated Dual-Screen Devices e.g., Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2: The Surface Laptop Studio offers a pull-forward screen for a different type of creative workflow and often includes a discrete GPU. The Yoga Book 9i’s approach is more about two full, independent displays.

Is It Worth It?

For the right user, absolutely.

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If your workflow benefits immensely from having multiple screens, if you’re a digital artist craving more canvas, or if you simply appreciate cutting-edge technology and are willing to adapt your habits, the Yoga Book 9i delivers a truly transformative experience that no other single device currently offers in the same way.

However, if you primarily need a traditional laptop for basic tasks, gaming, or heavy-duty rendering, and aren’t keen on adapting to new interaction methods or managing the included accessories, then the premium price might be better spent on a more conventional powerhouse or a lighter, more streamlined ultrabook.

It’s an investment in a specific vision of productivity, and for those who align with that vision, the value is clear.

The Future of Laptops? Pros and Cons of the Dual-Screen Era

The Lenovo Yoga Book 9i stands as a bold statement about the potential future of personal computing.

It challenges the conventional single-screen laptop paradigm, pushing the boundaries of design and functionality.

While its innovative approach brings significant advantages, it also introduces certain trade-offs that are inherent to pioneering technology.

The “Pros” of Embracing the Dual-Screen Future

  • Unparalleled Multitasking: This is the undisputed champion feature. Having two full, vibrant OLED screens side-by-side or stacked vertically dramatically enhances productivity. Imagine researching on one screen while writing on the other, or having a video conference on top while taking notes below. It’s a genuine productivity boost.
  • Enhanced Creativity and Professional Workflows: For digital artists, graphic designers, video editors, and even coders, the dual-screen setup provides a dedicated canvas and tool palette, or an extended code editor, respectively. The stylus integration makes it a powerful creative workstation.
  • Versatile Form Factors: The ability to seamlessly switch between laptop, tablet, tent, book, and scroll modes offers incredible adaptability for different use cases – from giving presentations to reading large documents or collaborating in small groups.
  • Immersive Media Consumption: Whether watching a movie spanned across both screens in tent mode or reading an e-book with two full pages displayed, the experience is more immersive and engaging than a single screen.
  • Innovation and “Wow Factor”: It’s a head-turner. The Yoga Book 9i represents genuine innovation in a market often criticized for incremental updates. It truly feels like a device from the future.
  • Reduced Desk Clutter: For mobile professionals, it offers the benefits of a multi-monitor setup without needing external displays, cables, or power bricks.

The “Cons” and Challenges of the Dual-Screen Approach

  • Learning Curve for Interaction: The virtual keyboard and unique gestures require adaptation. Touch typists might struggle initially, and navigating two screens with new gestures can take time to master. The reliance on an included physical keyboard somewhat diminishes the “futuristic” feel.
  • Battery Life Impact: Powering two high-resolution OLED displays simultaneously is demanding. While reasonable, battery life is shorter in dual-screen mode compared to single-screen ultrabooks.
  • Thicker and Heavier than Traditional Ultrabooks: While impressively thin for what it is, it’s still thicker and slightly heavier than a comparable 13-inch single-screen laptop due to the additional display and complex hinge.
  • Durability Concerns Perceived vs. Real: While Lenovo’s hinges are robust, having two exposed screens might evoke concerns about durability, especially with frequent manipulation. The included folio case helps mitigate this.
  • Cost: Innovation comes at a price. The Yoga Book 9i is a premium device, making it inaccessible for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Software Optimization: While Lenovo has done a good job, perfecting the user experience across all applications and modes on a dual-screen device is an ongoing challenge. Some applications may not scale perfectly across two displays or might require manual window management.
  • Fingerprint Magnet: Two large glass screens mean constant smudges, requiring frequent wiping.

The Future of Laptops?

The Yoga Book 9i is a significant step towards a dual-screen future for laptops.

It proves that such a design can be practical, powerful, and genuinely enhance productivity for specific users.

While it won’t replace traditional clamshells overnight especially for those prioritizing raw power, ultimate portability, or traditional typing experiences, it lays crucial groundwork.

  • Trend Towards More Screens: We are seeing more experimental form factors e.g., rollable phones, foldable screens that aim to provide more screen real estate in portable packages. The Yoga Book 9i is part of this broader trend.
  • AI Integration: The NPU in its processor hints at a future where AI will further optimize dual-screen workflows, predict user needs, and enhance software integration.
  • Evolution, Not Revolution Yet: It’s an evolutionary step, not a complete revolution. It targets a niche of users who value its specific advantages. As technology matures, costs decrease, and software optimization improves, dual-screen devices may become more mainstream.

In conclusion, the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i is a fascinating and highly capable machine.

It’s a testament to bold engineering and a compelling vision for the future of portable computing.

While it’s not without its quirks and trade-offs, for the right user, it offers a genuinely transformative experience that far exceeds the capabilities of a traditional laptop.

It’s a powerful glimpse into what our digital workspaces might look like very soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i?

The Lenovo Yoga Book 9i is an innovative dual-screen laptop featuring two 13.3-inch OLED displays, designed to offer enhanced multitasking and versatile usage modes.

What are the main screens specifications of the Yoga Book 9i?

It features two 13.3-inch 2.8K 2880 x 1800 OLED displays, known for vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast.

Does the Yoga Book 9i have a physical keyboard?

Yes, a physical Bluetooth keyboard is included in the box and can be magnetically attached to the bottom screen for a traditional typing experience, though the device primarily uses a virtual keyboard on the lower screen.

How is the typing experience on the virtual keyboard?

The virtual keyboard uses haptic feedback to simulate key presses, but it requires a significant adjustment for touch typists and may not be as precise or fast as a physical keyboard for extended typing.

What processor does the Yoga Book 9i use?

It typically uses Intel Core Ultra processors e.g., Core Ultra 7 or Core Ultra 5, which include an integrated NPU for AI acceleration.

What kind of graphics does it have?

It relies on integrated Intel Arc graphics, suitable for everyday tasks, 4K video playback, and light gaming, but not discrete graphics for demanding professional 3D rendering or high-end gaming.

What is the battery life of the Yoga Book 9i?

Battery life varies: around 8-10 hours with single-screen usage and approximately 5-7 hours with continuous dual-screen usage, depending on tasks and brightness.

How does the dual-screen setup enhance productivity?

It allows for unparalleled multitasking, enabling users to run different applications on each screen simultaneously, use one screen for reference while working on another, or span content across both for an extended view.

Can I use a stylus with the Yoga Book 9i?

Yes, it includes a Lenovo Digital Pen 3, which offers pressure sensitivity and tilt support for drawing, note-taking, and precise navigation on either screen.

What ports does the Yoga Book 9i have?

It features three Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, which support charging, data transfer, and video output.

It does not have USB-A, HDMI, or a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Does it have a headphone jack?

No, the Yoga Book 9i does not have a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Users need to rely on Bluetooth headphones or a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter.

What is the weight of the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i?

It weighs approximately 1.34 kg 2.95 lbs, making it portable but slightly heavier than a typical 13-inch single-screen ultrabook.

What are the main modes of operation for the Yoga Book 9i?

It supports Laptop mode with virtual or physical keyboard, Book mode, Tent mode, Scroll mode vertical stacking, and Tablet mode.

Is the Yoga Book 9i good for creative professionals?

Yes, its dual OLED screens and included stylus make it an excellent tool for digital artists, designers, and video editors who benefit from extended canvas space and precise input.

What kind of audio system does it have?

It features a Bowers & Wilkins sound system with speakers cleverly integrated into the hinge, providing clear and immersive audio with Dolby Atmos support.

What is the webcam quality like?

It typically features a 5MP or higher full HD webcam, offering significantly clearer video calls than standard laptop cameras, along with an IR camera for Windows Hello.

Does the Yoga Book 9i have AI features?

Yes, leveraging its Intel Core Ultra processor with an integrated NPU, it supports AI-powered features like real-time background blur, eye-contact correction, and AI noise cancellation for microphones.

Is the Yoga Book 9i suitable for gaming?

It can handle light gaming due to its Intel Arc integrated graphics, but it is not designed for demanding, high-end gaming experiences that require a discrete GPU.

Is the RAM and storage upgradable?

No, like most ultra-thin laptops, the RAM and storage SSD are typically soldered onto the motherboard and are not user-upgradable after purchase.

What operating system does it run?

It runs on Windows 11, with additional Lenovo software enhancements to optimize the dual-screen experience.

Does it come with a stylus?

Yes, the Lenovo Digital Pen 3 is typically included with the Yoga Book 9i.

How durable is the hinge mechanism?

The hinge mechanism is designed to be robust and durable, allowing for frequent adjustments between its various modes, built with a premium metal chassis.

Does the Yoga Book 9i get hot under load?

Like most thin and light laptops, it can get warm and its fans will become audible under sustained heavy loads, but Lenovo’s cooling system is efficient for its form factor.

What kind of charging does it use?

It charges via USB-C Power Delivery PD and supports fast charging, using one of its Thunderbolt 4 ports.

Does it support external monitors?

Yes, its Thunderbolt 4 ports can be used to connect external monitors, including high-resolution 4K or 8K displays.

What is the primary benefit of the Scroll Mode?

Scroll Mode effectively creates one very tall display, which is excellent for viewing long documents, coding, or browsing social media feeds without excessive scrolling.

Is the Yoga Book 9i good for presentations?

Yes, its Tent Mode allows one screen to face the audience while the other can display your notes or control panel, making it excellent for presentations.

How does the virtual trackpad work?

The virtual trackpad appears on the lower screen and uses haptic feedback to simulate clicks, providing a smooth surface for navigation, though it differs from a physical trackpad.

What wireless connectivity options does it have?

It supports the latest Wi-Fi 6E for fast and stable internet connections and Bluetooth 5.2 or later for connecting wireless peripherals.

Is the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i worth the price?

For users who highly value innovative dual-screen multitasking, enhanced creative workflows, and versatile form factors, the premium price is justifiable for the unique and productive experience it offers.

For those seeking traditional laptop features or budget-conscious options, it may be less appealing.

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