Multiple screen setups have been available on desktop computers for some time.  The convenience of additional screen real estate is now available on a laptop by Lenovo and other multi-screen laptop options from Intel and gScreen are in the works.

Lenovo was the first manufacturer to hit the market with a dual screen laptop computer.  The ThinkPad W700ds has a 17 inch display with a second 10.6 inch slide-out/retractable screen which provides 39 percent more screen space.  The W700ds is classified as a mobile workstation with lots of features and options.  Full specifications are available here.

Intel has recently unveiled a multi-screen concept laptop code named Tangent Bay.  While this prototype has been described by many as a four-screen laptop, it actually has only one full-size screen with three small multi-touch displays across the top of the keyboard area.  Given the single full-size display, this design is geared more toward organizing multiple tasks rather than providing additional work space.  Details on pricing, availability and additional features for Tangent Bay have not been provided by Intel at this point, but there is brief post which includes a video on the Intel Developer Forum blog.

The gScreen Spacebook has a true dual screen design which provides the most usable display area of these multi-screen computers, though its footprint is no larger than a standard laptop.  Its two full-size screens slide outward in each direction when in use, resulting in side by side displays.  The gScreen blog has the latest planned Spacebook specifications along with pictures.  The Spacebook is scheduled to hit the market during the fourth quarter of 2009.

These multi-screen laptop innovations are good news for laptop power users that require additional screen real estate.  Hopefully, Lenovo, Intel and gScreen will continue their innovative work and spark other companies to join the party.