The ThinkPad X9 series stands out through its holistic design approach of balancing form and function. It rethinks traditional laptop architecture to accommodate AI-driven performance within an ultra-thin profile, while maintaining structural integrity, thermal efficiency, and serviceability. Every element—from the refined silhouette to the central ‘engine hub’—reflects a commitment to purposeful innovation for modern mobile professionals.
Design: The ThinkPad X9 series reimagines the classic ThinkPad aesthetic with a fully redesigned keyboard while preserving the iconic design heritage of the ThinkPad ‘smile’ shape keycap. The X9 series showcases new design thinking for laptop form factors and modernises ThinkPad’s look and feel. An all new “engine hub” design consolidates key components into a single area, enhancing cooling efficiency and providing an extended range of ports without sacrificing system thickness and mobility.
AI Integration: Equipped with Lenovo AI Now, an on-device assistant based on Meta’s Llama 3.0, the X9 series offers personalised AI tools for tasks like document organisation and device management, all processed locally to maintain user privacy.
Sustainability: The X9 system housing is made from 50% recycled aluminum and includes 100% recycled cobalt cell batteries. The system is shipped in 100% plastic free packaging, reflecting Lenovo’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Enhanced Display and Connectivity: Both 14-inch and 15-inch models offer OLED screens with 2.8K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, along with multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports and HDMI 2.1 for versatile connectivity.
The ThinkPad X9 series redefines what a business laptop can be, balancing a modernised design, AI-driven performance, and sustainability. By adding AI integration and repair-friendly architecture, Lenovo positions itself as a leader in future-forward business computing.
Designing a completely new laptop series with unique features and a fresh design language is indeed a challenging but exciting task. The core of design philosophy is a seamless blend of minimalist aesthetics with cutting-edge functionality.
Visually Thin design: We spent extra time redesigning the form factor to integrate AI PC components, powerful thermals, ports, and performance into an ultra-thin chassis—culminating in the innovative design of the ‘engine hub’ for optimised cooling and layout efficiency.
Modern interior design: A completely new interior design, with all elements including the keycap shape, nomenclature, and a haptic touchpad, while preserving the iconic ThinkPad identity. This evolution enhances usability without compromising the classic durability and efficiency that professionals rely on.
Engine Hub: At the core of this innovation is the new Engine Hub, a groundbreaking feature and design language that sets the foundation for an entirely new series. The Engine hub is a meticulously engineered system that optimises cooling, simplifies repairs, houses ports and enhances overall performance—demonstrating the dedication and hard work behind every detail.
Ergonomic Contour: The bottom of the device has an ergonomic curvature and 3D texture to provide a memorable tactile connection between user and the device. The system contour design provides a comfortable typing angle and improves airflow for cooling, making it both functional and user-friendly.
Category:ElectronicsAward Year:2025Designers:Cuong Truong, Xinhuan Chen, Yoshihito Nakagaki, TingyuZhang, Seth Rumsey, Shige Kimura, and Madison Smith, Lenovo Design Innovation Team, Lenovo, Morrisville, North Carolina, USAManufacturer:Lenovo, Morrisville, North Carolina, USA
