The Toshiba Libretto series, first introduced in 1996, marked a significant leap in portable computing. Designed as ultra-mobile PCs, the Libretto featured a compact form factor and innovative design, appealing to users who valued portability without sacrificing functionality. The original Libretto 20 was notable for its small size, weighing just over 0.45 kilograms, and included a 7.1-inch screen, a full keyboard, and Windows 95.

Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Toshiba released several iterations, improving processing power and battery life while maintaining the series' signature compactness. Models like the Libretto 50, 70, and 100 incorporated advancements such as faster CPUs, larger displays, and enhanced graphics capabilities.

In the mid-2000s, the Libretto series saw a resurgence with the introduction of the Libretto U100, which featured a more modern design and improved performance. This model was praised for its sleek aesthetics and portability, appealing to a new generation of mobile professionals. The series eventually evolved into the Libretto W100, which showcased a dual-screen design, incorporating touch technology that aligned with emerging trends in mobile devices. However, despite its innovations, the Libretto series struggled to compete with the rise of tablets and smartphones. By the early 2010s, the Libretto line was largely discontinued, but it remains a notable chapter in the history of portable computing, representing Toshiba's commitment to innovation and the evolution of mobile technology.