BEIJING, June 21 (Xinhuanet) -- Intel has built the world's only Wi-Fi waverunner, a toughened, waterproof tablet computer embedded into the surface of a working surfboard, for the 2004 GoldCoast Oceanfest in Australia, CRIENGLISH.com reported Saturday.

    An embedded Intel Centrino chip lets the board communicate with a wireless access point on the beach.

    The company says the device allows riders check E-mail, browse Web sites, and use an embedded camera to record footage of themselves riding the waves. A solar-charging kit lets the device recharge in the sun, extending battery life.

    Matthews, a British surfboard "shaper," built the board to help promote the 2004 Intel Gold Coast Oceanfest, a sports and music festival held this weekend in North Devon, England.

    Intel also has set up a number of wireless hot spots on the beach in North Devon, which will be used both by participants and judges as they watch competitors surf, bike, skateboard, and play other sports. 

   (CRIENGLISH.com)