Netbooks: What You Need to Know About the Next 6 Months

From Gizmodo -

As reported by Digitimes (see Vendors to launch Atom N450-based netbooks on January 11, 2010) several vendors will be launching their Atom N450-based netbooks next month, with 2GB RAM equipped N470-based models expected in March. Unfortunately, the new models will not be able to handle HD video natively. Apparently they will need an extra chip like the Broadcom Crystal HD video accelerator, which should add about $30 to the overall price.

On the other hand, Nvidia recently demo'd an Ion-powered 11.6" HP Mini 311 playing stutter-free YouTube HD video on an external monitor. Other Ion-powered models include the 12.1" Lenovo IdeaPad S12 and the 11.6" Samsung N510. The downside is that they are still using the Diamondville-class Atoms. And while Intel has claimed that Pineview processors will be compatible with Ion, no netbook of that combo has been previewed. Fact is, Nvidia has reportedly said that its next gen Ion 2 chipset will be available end of the year.

The upcoming Consumer Electronics Show in January should reveal the positioning strategies of the vendors. Ion-powered Pineview-based netbooks are a distinct possibilities, while one or two models with the Ion 2 chipset might make their appearances. In addition, AMD will market its Congo platform, aimed at competed with Intel's ultra-low voltage platform (read 12" to 13").

A lot of activities is also expected in the smartbook subsegment, with ARM pushing its Android-based smartbook platform, Nvidia its competing ARM-based Tegra chip, and Google with its Chrome OS down the line.