Cebit opens up world of hi-tech

The finishing touches are being put to Cebit 2006
The Cebit trade fair in Hanover is usually billed as the world's largest technology show and announcements at the show will cover the whole gamut of technology.

Most eagerly awaited by industry watchers are more details about Microsoft's Origami project.

The software giant is expected to reveal hints about what is believed to be an ultra-portable PC at its news conference on Wednesday.

So far all Microsoft has confirmed is that it will be a paperback-sized tablet PC that runs Windows XP.

However, more concrete information is expected to come from hardware partners Intel and Samsung - the latter is predicted to be showing off working versions of whatever Origami actually turns out to be during Cebit. 

The Cebit technology fair is held in Hanover from 9-15 March. Almost 500,000 people attended in 2005 and more are expected this year.