Lenovo unveiled what it described as a “multimode” tablet, which it argues “adapts to the way people use it instead of forcing people to adapt to the technology”.

Called Yoga Tablet, the Chinese vendor said it supports “hold, tilt and stand” modes, designed to address three issues encountered by users: “fatigue when holding and using the tablet; no self-supporting mechanism when laid on a flat surface; and an inadequate viewing angle when set on a table”.

It is said to have an “exclusive cylindrical handle… designed to fit an individual’s hand”, which can be rotated 90 degrees to act as an adjustable stand. It can be laid down in the inclined “tilt mode” to allow users to “type directly on the tablet, play games and just surf the internet with a better viewing angle”.

The device is available in two versions, with either 8-inch or 10-inch screens. It will also be available in Wi-Fi only or 3G versions, with 16GB or 32GB onboard memory – a microSD expansion slot is also available.

Other features include 1280×800 displays, 5MP rear camera, optional front camera and, for the 10-inch model, an optional Bluetooth keyboard that also functions as a cover.

The 8-inch device costs $249, and the 10-inch unit is $299, with availability through a number of US retailers. International availability was not detailed.