8.9" Asus Eee PC to be Launched January?

According to China Times (Chinese), Asus will introduce a new model of the Asus Eee PC with 8.9" LCD in January next year. (That's next month, or rather, next week.) While the article did not quote a price, it did mention that the Eee PC's 7" LCD currently cost about USD40 while 8.9" LCDs cost about USD50 to USD60. This would imply the relatively slight price difference would result in only a slight price increase for the new model. If so, it should be enough reason for most buyers to hold off buying the current model and wait for the new model instead.

However, given that much rumors and contradictory reports have surrounded the Asus Eee PC's introduction, I would not take the report as gospel truth at this time, especially since it does not jive with the previous announcements of 2nd generation models in April. It simply does not make any economic sense for Asus to be releasing new previously un-announced models so soon even as it has a difficult time filling the demand for the original models.

For Asus' sake, I hope that this news is officially confirmed or refuted as soon as possible.

Translated (into English) article can be read here.