Samsung NC20 Review

ubergizmo has a review of the 12" Samsung NC20 and their conclusion is it is comfortable, light and has a good battery life - the three fundamental and desirable qualities.

While its Via Nano processor can stand against Intel's 1.6Ghz single-core Atom and its hard disk is faster than those found in more expensive laptops, there are other models, such as the Lenovo S12 (with the Ion chipset), that is within the same price range but has more features.

You can read the entire review here.

Rumor: Netbook Debate Ends With A Quiet Settlement?

Gizmodo has reported that the netbook trademark debate started by Psion and picked up by Intel is finally over. Per the French site Blogeee the two companies have reached a settlement after several months of legal squabble. Accordingly, Psion all has agreed to "allow" others to use the term netbook for undisclosed considerations, if any, given by Intel.

Dell suffers catastrophic profit fall

From TG Daily -

Dell's latest quarterly results showed a 63% drop in profit, and a 23% fall in revenues. It turned in profits of $290 million on sales of $12.34 billion for the quarter, compared to $784 million on sales of $16.08 billion in the same period a year back.

It reported that there was no improvement in demand across the board, with sales of notebooks, desktops and servers all sliding. Notebook sales fell by 20 percent, year on year.

ECS plans a trio of netbooks

From Engadget -

ECS will be revealing five new models at Computex next week, with three of them being netbooks. All three are based on the Atom although at least one will have the NVIDIA Ion technology. The T10IL (shown left in above photo) boasts a thin-and-light frame similar to the ASUS Eee PC 1008HA while V10IL (shown right)is more of a vanilla type machine.

Foxconn SZ901 Netbook (with Linpus Lite Moblin V2)

Asus Eee PC 1008HA gets cracked open, ASUS' obsession with Scotch tape revealed

Above photo from Engadget shows the innards of the ASUS Eee PC 1008HA. The photo says it all.

Bye-bye Kindle, E-reader Screens Coming for Netbooks

From PC World -

Pixel Qi will show off engineering samples of its first screen product at Computex Taipei 2009 next week. Called 3qi, the a 10.1" screen designed to work in three modes: a black-and-white e-ink battery-saving mode for reading text documents and e-books, and two color modes, designed for use indoors or in bright sunlight, that are more suitable for Web surfing and video playback. The screens should be in netbooks and available by the end of this year. In addition, the new models will likely have displays that can swivel around to cover the keyboard, a tablet mode good for an e-book reader.

Given the most successful e-book reader, Amazon's Kindle, costs US$359 while most popular 10" netbooks such as the Asustek Eee PC 1000HE and Acer Aspire One AOD150-1165 are similarly priced, the new technology could spell doom for dedicated e-book readers.

Acer Aspire One 751H

Dell Mini 9 being phased out

From Engadget -

Dell's Mini 9 has conspicuously gone missing from its website while its Studio XPS 16 and a customer service rep has confirmed that i is being phased out, possibly as soon as possible. At least the Vostro A90 is still available.

I4U's Top 10 Netbook Comparisons

I4U News had, over the last weeks, published a series of comparisons of top netbook models. For your reference, links to the comparisons are listed below.

Netbook Comparisons:

• Asus Eee 1008HA versus Eee 1000HE
• MSI U123 Netbook versus Asus Eee PC 1000HE
• Samsung N110 versus Asus Eee 1000HE
• HP Mini 2140 versus Asus Eee PC 1000HE
• Samsung N120 versus Asus Eee PC 1000HE
• Dell Inspiron Mini 12 with Asus Eee PC 1000HE
• MSI Wind U120 versus MSI Wind U123
• Samsung NC10 versus Samsung N120
• Acer Aspire One A150 versus ASUS Eee PC 900HA
• Acer Aspire One D150 versus Asus Eee PC 1000HE

HP Adds Three New Netbooks

From I4U News -

HP has announced three new 10.1" netbooks - the Mini 110 XP Edition, Mini 110 Mobile Internet Edition, and the Mini 1101. The 110s use the Atom N270 while the 1101 uses the N280. Other specs are also typical Mini with some advanced options. The 110 XP Edition has 1GB RAM, a 32GB SSD or 160GB HDD and WWAN and Crystal HD Video accelerator options. The Mini 110Mi edition has Linux, 2GB max RAM and 250GB HD. The 1101 offers XP Home, Pro, and Vista OS' and offers a 6-cell battery option and 3-cell standard. Pricing is $329.99 for the 110 XP, $279.99 for the 110 Mi and $329 for the Mini 1101.

Intel cajoles Microsoft to limit netbook screen size

The Inquirer is suggesting that Intel and Microsoft have conspired, if rumors are to be believed, to keep netbook specs for Windows 7 Starter Edition down to a minimum to benefit the former. Among others, maximum screen size was pegged at 10.2", excluding most VIA-based netbooks with 11" and larger displays, which now has to use the more expensive editions of Windows 7.

The Asus Eee Seashell Review

Gizmodo has a review of the Asus Eee PC 1008HA Seashell. It gives praises for the adherence to the original concept of netbooks, especially the size; and of course, the design. But beyond that, technical specs are quite mundane although its non-swappable battery lasted 3 hours 27 minutes (short of the claimed 6 hours).

You can read the full review here.

Android apps to run on Ubuntu

From Ars Technica -

Ubuntu developer Canonical is building an Android execution environment that will allow Android apps to run on Ubuntu and potentially other Linux distros. The effort will open the door for Android apps to the desktop. In fact, the latest version of Google's open-source Linux-based platform has much improved reliability and more appeal to carriers and handset makers. The addition of an x86 port only increases anticipation of its entry into the netbook market.

UMID M1 Mbook available for Pre-Order

From I4U News -

The UMID M1 Mbook, a tiny Windows XP Atom-based netbook is now available on pre-order at Dynamism for $599. The unit measures a tiny 6.2 x 3.7 x 0.7 inches (157 x 94 x 17mm) and weighs only 0.69 lb (313g). But while its touchscreen is only 4.8", its 1024 x 600 resolution is crisp enough to make it comparable with most 9 - 10" screens.

Verizon HP Mini 1151NR Netbook Review

I4U News' parter Digital Trends has a review on the HP Mini 1151NR being offered by Verizon Wireless in a $199.99 3G bundle. As expected tit is not that positive as the unit is simply not a top of the line model. Issues include the two-year mobile data subscription which drives the actual cost way up, the 24 months lock-in period (you will be stuck with a sub-par model).

Lenovo S12 Is the First Netbook With Nvidia Ion, Costs Under $500

From Gizmodo -

The 12" Lenovo IdeaPad S12 is the first netbook based on Nvidia's Ion chipset, bringing 1080p video decoding, including accelerated h.264 playback, Blu-ray playback and moderate gaming capabilities into its class. The problem is while its resolution is 1280x800, 1080p video playback requires an external screen via its HDMI output.

Other specs are pretty much standard - 1GB RAM, 160GB HDD, 4-in-1 reader, 3-cell battery, Expresscard slot. It will go on sale in July for $500.

Microsoft publishes maximum Windows 7 netbooks specs

From Engadget -

After deciding to remove the three-app limit from its Windows 7 Starter Edition, Microsoft is now planning to impose strict limits on what types of machines get to run it. Per the chart above, Window 7 Starter machines will max out at 10.2" screens, 1GB RAM, 250GB hard drives or 64GB SSDs, and single-core processors under 2GHz.

Apparently, Microsoft is hoping that OEMs will ignore the max specs and and just ship Windows 7 Home Premium. But given established trends, it is more likely we will see the profileration of 10.2" netbooks with 2GHz procs and 1GB RAM and Windows 7 Starter Edition. :)

Microsoft dropping three app limit from Windows 7 Starter Edition

From Engadget -

Paul Thurrott of SuperSite for Windows has reported the three application limit on the Windows 7 Starter Edition has been dropped by Microsoft. Microsoft has initially imposed the limit as it has concerned about the limitations of netbooks, which appear to be the target device for the entry-level version.

Wintek to supply panel modules for Apple e-book reader

Per Digitimes Wintek has been selected as the panel module supplier for Apple's upcoming e-book form factor netbook.

Windows 7 Logo leaks are definitely real

From Windows 7 Center -

For those wondering about the different Microsoft Windows 7 logo, apparently Microsoft China is actually using it as its log-on logo. It has, in fact, been openly posting several images on its website.

You can see more images here.

Acer: Ultra-thin notebook proportion to reach 20%

From Digitimes -

Acer expects CULV-based ultra-thin notebooks will account for around 20% of its total notebook shipments in the future as consumer reaction are mostly positive. However, shortages of LED backlight panels and DRAM modules are increasing component costs and impacting gross margins. The company has already shipped around 2,000 ultra-thins in Taiwan since May and is currently completely sold out but it plans to increase monthly shipments to 5,000 units by the end of the month, and will continue to raise volumes beyond June.

MSI Wind U115 Hybrid : Unboxed

Uploaded by portablemonkey -

MSI Wind U123 now in US, U123H and U123T still on hold

From Engadget -

MSI has announced the availability of the new Wind U123, which features the new Intel® Atom™ 1.66 GHz N280, EasyFace identification software and an enlarged 10.2" LCD, and either a 6-cell or 9-cell battery. It is the first Wind to be available in red and blue, in addition to the standard grey and white and is now available from several online stores like Amazon, Newegg, Buy, and J&R. MSRP is USD379.99.

Unfortunately, the more exciting U123T (which packs a TV tuner) and U123H (which includes a 3.5G HSDPA WWAN module) are still not available.

Acer intros Aspire One 751h, Aspire One D250

From TG Daily -

Acer has introduced two new netbooks - the 11.6" LED-lit widescreen Aspire One 751h with a full sized keyboard and the 10.6" Aspire One D250 wth 3:15 hours of battery life.

The AO751h-1192 has the Atom Zf20, Windows XP Home, a multi-in-one card reader, the Acer "Crystal eye" web cam, two built in stereo speakers, three USB 2.0 ports, an 8 hour 6-cell battery, and is priced at $379.99.

The AOD250-1042 has the Atom N270, Windows XP Home, Intel 945GSE Express, 1GB DDR RAM, 160GB HD, a web cam, and three USB ports, and is priced at $298.

Apple may start to sell netbooks

From TG Daily -

Based on Apple's acquisition of PA Semi, various patent applications, and its hiring of chip designers, Piper Jaffray speculates the company could release a 7" - 10" touch screen tablet with a proprietary CPU for under $700. It also suggests that Apple may want to get into products that compete with Kindle and that also use 3G wireless.

Non-PC makers entering China netbook market

From Digitimes -

With the unabated increase in netbook sales in the local China market, several non-PC makers such as Malata, LCD monitor maker AOC, and motherboard manufacturer Colorful have all released their own respective netbook models.

Dell Mini 10 Finally Sprouts Built-in TV Tuner Option

Per Gizmodo the Dell Mini 10 is finally getting that built-in TV tuner option promised at CES as a $50 add-on. It tunes in to over-the-air digital ATSC TV.

The Wrong Way To Carry Your Notebook

From Gizmodo (Picture says it all) -

Moblin 2.0 Netbook Beta Introduction

Introducing the new user experience for Moblin 2.0 for Netbooks. If you're coming from Moblin Netbook you may need to go open the Manage Applications program and install Flash first.

Asus Eee PC 1008HA is available on ZipZoomFly for $409

NetbookReviews' Chris Guthrie dropped us a line informing us the Asus Eee PC 1008HA is available on ZipZoomFly for $409 (after $20 instant rebate). You can check out the details here.

The shipping ETA is 5/26/2009.

Intel Releases Moblin V2 for (OS for Netbooks/Nettop)

From Gizmodo -

Intel has announced the release of Moblin V2, an open-source linux-based operating system optimized for Atom-based that is also customizable for OEMs. Improvements include faster boot time (<10sec), smaller memory footprint, longer battery life and a new user interface (UI) with a homepage called M-zone, for "My" zone (as shown in photo above). An interesting feature is the status updates of social networking sites are present directly in M-zone.

How To Install Windows 7 On Almost Any Netbook

Gizmodo has a prepared a nifty guide for installing Windows 7 on netbooks. The beta version is currently free and performs a lot better than either Windows XP or Vista, especially on low-end models. Unfortunately, the installation is not quite as easy. To begin with, most netbooks don't have optical drives. Secondly, a lot have limited storage space such as =Dell Mini 9 and Acer Aspire One, both of which have models with only 8GB SSDs. Gizmodo's guide provides the steps to solve the problems.

By the way, not all netbooks can accommodate Windows 7. At the very least, your netbook has to have 1GB RAM and 8GB storage space. You will also need a 4GB or bigger USB drive, a Windows 7 RC Image, another computer to prep the flash drive and lots of time.

You can read the complete guide here.

Albatron Slimline Netbook - Kurztest

Asus Eee Keyboard-PC Coming Next Month

From I4U News -

The Asus Eee Keyboard is going to be launched in the Asian market by no later than the end of June. Its rumored specs are very impressive - Atom 270, 32GB SSD, 802.11n, Bluetooth, HDMI-out, stereo speakers, and a 5" touch screen. The last feature makes it a self-contained netbook very suitable for chatting, twitting, blogging and some quick browsing.

OCZ Neutrino DIY Netbook Review

I4U News has a review on the OCZ Neutrino, a sort of do-it-yourself netbook that is sold without the OS, storage, and RAM - much in the same the old ECS iBuddie desktop-in-a-laptop units were sold a few years back. But at $289.99 without those components, it means the Neutrino will end up costing a lot more than the complete netbooks you can buy and use immediately.

Specs-wise, it has the usual features - 2.86 lbs, 263 x 185 x 19.6-27mm, 10" 1024x600 backlit LED, Atom N270/Intel 945GSE, 83 key keyboard, WiFi, 1.3MP wecam, dual 1.5W speakers, and a not-so-common 34mm PCI-E slot.

You can read the full review here.

Acer Aspire One 571 - HD and Blu-Ray

From macles* -


Physically, the Aspire One 571 seems to be just another model in Acer's netbook line. It even has a similar chassis to those used on the D150/D250 series. Internally, it has the same specs. Except for a few but significant additions - the screen is still 10.1" but it has a 1280x720 16:9 resolution. And while the Atom N280 still cannot reliably decode H.264 or HD video at that resolution, it's supported by the Quartics Q1721 Multimedia Coprocessor. It does accelerate decoding and encoding of H.264 and other codecs, and also adds hardware scaling and filtering. In addition, it has a Vmedia drive, which uses tiny Blu-Ray discs, protected in a plastic cartridge, with a diameter of only 32mm (Blu-Ray: 120mm) and a capacity of 1GB.

Acer reportedly cuts netbook orders to ODMs

From Digitimes -

Acer has decided to focus on its higher-margin CULV-based notebooks. It has also scaled back as much as 50% on netbook orders at ODM partners Quanta Computer and Compal Electronics, partly due to the high inventory being experienced in its European channels.

ASUS bringing the Eee PC 1008HA to US

From Engadget -

ASUS will make available its Eee PC 1008HA Seashell in the US starting this summer. It will retail for $429 and will feature 802.11n, Bluetooth 2.1 +EDR, a new thin form factor and six hours of battery life.

Of note is that ASUS finally positioned the shift key correctly with this one.

Asus Seashell review: Eee PC 1008HA

PC Pro has reviewed the Asus Seashell aka Asus Eee PC 1008HA and has come away with a split decision - the stunning design goes hand in hand with fine usability but the non-replaceable battery and high price count against it.

The 10.2" Seashell stands out from a plethora of look-alike Eee PC models due to its slim, futuristic lines, which make it gorgeous like the Mac Air. But it feels less sturdy than the other slim Asus netbook, the S101.

However to achieve the aesthetics, Asus compromised on functionality, including keeping all the ports and connectors away out of sight. But the worst compromise is the use of a non-removable three-cell internal Lithium Polymer battery rated at just 2,900mAh. To be fair, the battery tested an impressive 5hrs 39mins in light use.

Full review here.

iUnika Gyy netbook weighs 1.5 pounds, will cost $176

From Engadget -

The iUnika Gyy is a 1.5 lbs netbook that uses the inexpensive Ingenic Xburst 400MHz MIPS processor and Linux combo now found in other similar models. What sets it apart though is it has a solar powered version at a promised price of €160 ($220). The base model sells for only €130 ($176) and will be available in July.

T-Mobile: Android Netbooks Coming.

From I4U News -

In an interview, Cole Brodman, T-Mobile CTO, stated that his company is going to launch several new Android devices later this year, after having sold in excess of 1,000,000 Android powered G1s so far. Cheaper Android-running phones should net the company even more sales.

Brodman also said he personally saw several prototypes of Android netbooks from some manufacturers. This last revelation hints at a possible bundle with the upcoming MSI-Android Netbook.

MSI U123 Netbook compared with Asus Eee PC 1000HE

I4U News has a comparative review of the MSI U123 and the Asus Eee PC 1000HE. Both are 10" Atom N280 1.66GHz processor netbooks with 1GB RAM, 160GB HDD and 1.3MP camera.

However the MSI U123 at 7.1" x 10.2" x 1.2" and 2.6 lbs. is lighter and less wide than the 1000HE 10.47" x 7.53" x 1.12-1.50" and 3.2 lbs. The former also comes in six or nine cell batteries while the latter has only the six-cell.

For those who put an emphasis on color, the U123 comes in four colors - metallic black, white, red, and blue, while the 1000HE is available in only black and blue.

Price-wise, The U123 is sold at $349.99 whereas the 1000HE is sold for $390.95.

So while the Asus Eee 1000HE may be the current bestselling netbook at Amazon, the MSI U123 is expected to give it a lot of competition.

Intel outlines notebook plans for 2H09

From Digitimes -

Intel recently outlined its future notebook and netbook platforms. Per its presentation, Intel's next-gen Calpella will launch Q3 2009 and will target the 14.0 to 18.4-" segments at retail prices of above US$1,200, with major makers expected to launch models by Q1 2010. For the 12- to 13-" segment, it will push CULV-based ultra-thin notebooks using Montevina CPUs and targeting the US$699-1,100 price range.

The Atom N280/GN40 combo for netbooks will be phased out, leaving the Atom N270/945GSE chipset as the sole offering until September this year, at which time it will be replaced by the Pineview and Tiger Point chipset. The new combo will target the 10" segment with prices ranging between US$399-599.

Intel has also designed a white book 8.9" netbook with specs that include the Atom N270 CPU, 945GSE chipset, 512MB RAM, 8GB or 16GB SSD, and Moblin v2 for the OS. Price is expected to be around US$256 but supply volume will be monitored.

Intel: Notebook business outline for 2H09
Panel Size	Platform	Price
14- to 18.4-inch	Calpella (traditional notebook)	Above US$1,200
12- to 13-inch	CULV (ultra-thin notebook)	US$699-1,100
10-inch	Atom N270 + 945GSE chipset (Before September) (netbook) Pineview CPU + Tiger Point chipset (After September) (netbook)	US$399-599
8.9-inch	Atom N270 + 945GSE chipset (white-box netbook)	1750 RMB (US$256)

Sources: Notebook makers, compiled by Digitimes, May 2009

Lenovo on the future of the netbook

TECH.BLORGE spoke to Lenovo’s Worldwide Competitive Analyst, Matt Kohut, about his vision of the future of netbooks, which involves Windows 7, bigger screens, built-in 3G, touch integration, and lower prices. Among his predictions are -

Windows 7 will be the dominant operating system on netbooks in the future partly due to its touch functionality.

Future netbooks will have distinguishing features such as integrated 3G and bigger screens as manufacturers try to push the price point higher. Netbooks will become larger, moving into the 12" segment.

Notebooks will not go away as Intel is trying very hard to limit what netbooks can do.

New Thin and Light Notebooks from Dr. Mobile

Firt shots of Skytone Alpha 680

Member living_sword of Mod My GPhone forum has posted some shots of Skytone Alpha 680, the first Android-based netbook. The Alpha 680 uses an ARM11 CPU 533 Mhz and has a 7" 800 x 480 LCD, 128MB DDR2 (256MB max) RAM, 1G SSD (4 GB max) and Wi-Fi. Unfortunately it is not compatible with some of the available Android apps. It is expected to hit the market in Q3 for around $250.

Skytone is also involved in the manufacture of the cheaper Xburst netbooks, whose wholesale price has dropped below $100. Incidentally, Ingenic, which makes the Xburst processor (MIPS-based) is working on an Android port for it. If and when Ingenic makes that available, we will end up with Android netbooks that are actually cheaper than Android mobile phones! Who would have thought that could actually happen? :)

OpenOffice 3.1 is available

From Crunchgear -

OpenOffice, the open-source Microsoft Office alternative, has released version 3.1. While it is not a major upgrade from the previous version, there are considerably a lot of new improvements in this latest release.

You can download it here.

World first Android Netbook- Skytone Alpha680

Uploaded by NetDes -

Great netbook with the latest emerging software system. This is how the Skytone Alpha680 the Netbook based on Android performs. These are some of the typical applications we run on Alpha680. there are a lot more applications to come.

UMID M1 Mbook UMPC

Updated NohrTec Gecko sports a 9" screen, $200 price tag

From Liliputing -

The NohrTec Gecko EduBook has several innovative features. First, it uses a low power 1GHz Xcore86 CPU that can run Windows XP (Ubuntu Netbook Remix is the default OS) on just 1.2 watts. Second, it runs on 8 AA NiMH or Li Ion batteries, providing between 4 and 6 hours. Third, it is modular, with the CPU and RAM. It also features a modular design, with the CPU and RAM both upgradeable.

More standard specs include an 8.9" 1024x600 display, either a 2.5" HD or internal SD card for storage, an external SD card slot, four USB ports (one internal) and RAM capacity of 256MB, 512MB or 1MB.

Xcore86 and Gecko Edubook

The Xcore86 is a new Device on Chip that features a full x86 computer on a single chip. This video shows how the Xcore86 can be used to power future handheld devices that will be able to run existing x86 operating systems such as Windows and Linux. Also shown is the upcoming new Gecko Edubook. The Gecko Edubook is the least expensive 8.9 inch screen x86 netbook available. It is also fanless, features standard rechargable AA NiMH batteries and can be booted from a standard SD or 2.5 inch hard disk.

Acer Aspire One - $275.99 at ZipZoomFly

ZipZoomFly is selling the Acer Aspire One for only $275.99 shipped.

Ingenic Porting Android to Xburst

Beijing-based Ingenic, the maker of the Xburst MIPS processors found in those inexpensive Linux-based sub $100 - $150 7" netbooks is reportedly working on an Android port for their Xburst series. While it is not clear if the port is for a new processor, it would not be a surprise if it is for their Jz4740, which is used by a lot of the netbook manufacturers. If so, the port should be able to run on existing Xburst netbooks with the Linux 2.6 kernel.

It would be interesting to see if the bundled Webkit-based browser will be able to support Flash, a feature that is glaringly missing in the current Xburst models. More importantly, will ordinary users be able to install Android on their own - given that the current models don't provide a straightforward of flashing the ROM nor even terminal access?

Timetable is projected to be a couple of months. That is not a bad wait - considering we may just yet end up with an Android netbook that is cheaper than most Android mobile phones. :)

LG X120 unboxing and hands-on

Engadget has posted an unboxing photo gallery of the LG X120. The netbook has LG's Splashtop-powered Smart On interface for a quick boot-up.

EagleTec USB NanoSac microSD Card Reader

From Coolest Gadgets -

The EagleTec USB NanoSac is an extremely small, lightweight (2 grams) microSD card reader that supports both microSD and microSDHC memory cards. More importantly, it has hot-swapping capability, making data transfer very convenient, especially since at its size, you can leave it permanently plugged into your USB port without fear of it snapping off.

Phoenix Freeze Prevents Unwanted Access to Laptops

From PR Newswire -

Phoenix Technologies has announced the availability of Phoenix Freeze, which provides users with a convenient, always-on Bluetooth proximity system that automatically locks down a laptop whenever the user walks away from it.

Freeze pairs a Bluetooth mobile phone with the user's laptop so that the laptop immediately locks whenever the user walks away with their phone. When the user returns within a certain user-predefined proximity of their mobile computer, it automatically unlocks. This combination offers safety, security, and peace of mind without the annoying effort required to constantly lock and unlock the PC with passwords or finger swipes.

For those who are particularly cautious or those with a critical need to secure data, the Freeze laptop proximity lock can be made a part of a multifaceted authentication process that reduces the time and effort required to achieve a highly secure yet convenient PC experience.

Freeze is available immediately to consumers via download here.

Asus launches Eee PC Seashell

From PC Advisor UK -

Asus has unveiled its £379 Eee PC 1008HA Seashell, a 10" model running on the Atom N280 1.6 GHz processor, 1GB RAM, and Windows XP Home. Other features include dimensions of 262x178x25.7mm, 1.1 kg weight, 160GB HD, Bluetooth, 802.11 b/g/n, 1.3Mp webcam, two USB ports a three-in-one card reader and battery life of six hours.

Available in white, Blue or Burgundy, it will be available from May 15.

Bsquare Outs Dell Android Netbook

In a press release titled "Bsquare to Port Adobe Flash Lite on New Google Android Netbook for Dell Leverages Bsquare's Android Competency to Improve the Adobe(R) Flash(R) Lite Experience on Dell's Mini Inspiron 910", Bsquare reveals Dell's upcoming netbook models running on Android. It reads in part -

BELLEVUE, WA -- (Marketwire) -- 05/06/09 -- Bsquare Corporation (NASDAQ: BSQR), the leading software solutions provider to the global embedded device community, today announced it is porting Adobe's Flash Lite 3.17 technology onto Dell Netbooks running Google's Android platform...

Full press release here.

Why dedicated ebook readers won’t take off

From MobileCommIT -

With the launching of its Kindle DX ebook reader, Amazon has reiterated its efforts to bring digital publishing finally into the mainstream after years of languishing in niche markets despite the participation of major players like Sony (Sony Reader Digital Book) and Barnes & Noble (ebook publishing).

Amazon’s offering of ebooks will definitely encourage publishers to give the medium another chance. Conversely, the availability of a significant volume of free ebooks from sites like Project Gutenberg will convince readers to try ebook reading, if not purchase the Kindle or other ebook readers.

However as much as the Kindle is now being called the iPods of books, it has yet to do what the original icon did for music and media players. The question is will it be able to do so? For that matter, will any other dedicated ebook reader succeed in re-defining the ebook trade?

Where the iPod succeeded more out of packaging and providing a turnkey system with the iTune store than in using an alternate technology, dedicated ebook readers, for the most part, use E-ink as their display, instead of the more conventional and cheaper LCD technology. Unfortunately, while the use of the E-ink display makes the ebook reader a better device for its intended purpose, it also severely limits other type of usage.

Admittedly, E-ink is easier on the eyes because it is not backlit and does not have any flickering. Battery life also lasts considerably much longer, measuring in days instead of hours. But its downside is plentiful. It is more expensive. It does not support animation or video. And it is currently not available in color.

So that means consumers will be paying a significant premium if they choose to buy an ebook reader with a singular purpose over a more powerful, more versatile, general purpose notebook. Of course, the ebook experience on the latter will never match up with that on the former but you will get to do all the other things, including watching Youtube videos.

But what about the future?

Well, color E-ink is projected to be available in 2011. But that is like two lifetimes away in computer terms. On the other hand, per Mary Lou Jepsen, the designer of OLPC’s reflective LCD Screen, her new company, Pixel Qi, is developing an LCD designed for reading with a performance better than E-Ink’s – with full color and video.

In addition, other developments in screen technology such as flexible OLED provide interesting alternatives. If more affordable, more suitable screens are successfully developed for general purpose notebooks that can result in considerably longer lasting battery life, then the gap in performance between ebook readers and notebooks will certainly close. As it is, the current value for money equation already favors notebooks.

So when notebooks with improved screen technology and battery life start becoming available (and they will), at prices considerably much lower than those of dedicated ebook readers, the high prices of the latter will make them even less attractive. Even if manufacturers of the dedicated readers decide to switch screens to bring down costs, they will still find it difficult to compete price-wise. After all, it takes very little to go from an ebook reader to a general purpose notebook. The added components’ costs are only incremental.

Thus, from this perspective, dedicated ebook readers really do not have anywhere to go. Their sole functionality will eventually be performed by general purpose notebooks or even scaled-down sub $100 netbooks.

First Android netbook to cost $250

From TG Daily -

The first netbook to use the Google Android OS, the Skytone Alpha 680, is expected to hit store shelves within the next three months at a price of $250. The product is currently undergoing final testing at Guangzhou Skytone Transmission Technologies with a final prototype due in June. Specs include a 7" LCD screen, a 533MHz ARM 11 CPU (same as the Apple iPhone), touchpad, keyboard, WiFi, and a battery that can last 2 - 4 hours. It weighs 1.5 lbs.

Asus to launch 11.6" Eee PC later this month

From Digitimes -

Per Asus President Jerry Shen, his company will be introducing an 11.6" Eee PC later this month. However, he expects their 10" models to be their main line, accounting for 50% of total shipments for this year. The 11.6" line is expected to account for 30%.

Windows 7 RC 1 now available

Windows 7 Release Candidate 1 is now available for free downloading here. It will be available at least through July 2009 and Microsoft is not limiting the number of product keys.

The beta version will expire on June 1, 2010. But starting on March 1, 2010, it will begin shutting down your computer every two hours. Windows will notify you two weeks before the bi-hourly shutdowns start. To avoid interruption, you’ll need to install a non-expired version of Windows before March 1, 2010. You’ll also need to install the programs and data that you want to use.

AT&T to Subsidize 10.1" Acer Aspire Ones Through Costco

From The Boy Genius Report -

Based on training materials for Costco employees, it appears AT&T will be offering the 10.1" Acer Aspire One bundled with integrated 3G access via the membership chain store starting May 11. No word yet on pricing but it should just be a bit higher than the 8.9″ model currently available from Radio Shack.

Acer Aspire One 751: 11.6", Atom Z520 & May launch

From Slashgear -

Acer has listed its 11.6" Aspire One 751 on its German site. Specs include the Intel Atom Z520 processor paired with the US15W Express Chipset, up to 2GB of RAM, LED-backlit 200-nit display running at WXGA 1366 x 768, WiFi b/g and optional Bluetooth 2.0+EDR and triband UMTS/HSPA WWAN.

Both 3-cell and 6-cell batteries are available, with run time estimated at up to 8hrs with the latter. Availability (in U.K.) is set for May with pricing at £349 ($518).

Atom market on track, says Intel

From Digitimes -

Intel has refuted recent market reports claiming demand its Atom processor is slowing, especiallyh in China. While not directly addressing the issue, the company noted that it provided complete mobile product lines and it recently released the higher-end CULV-baed chipsets. As such a slowing of Intel Atom demand for some makers would be expected, as they shift to the higher-margin CULV-based products. And while most China-based netbook makers are not major players and are not expected to compete in the CULV market but will continue to focus on Atom-based products, demand and supply for the processor remains sufficient there, though supply is tightening for other IC components.

ARM hints at possible Windows 7 support

From Engadget -

During a recent analysts conference call, ARM CEO Warren East said "Microsoft will continue to play an important part in this [netbook] space," and that "if there was Windows support for the ARM processor today clearly it would be a very different marketplace." He also added "perhaps there will be support in future but that's really for Microsoft to comment on and not for us to comment on, I'm afraid."

Not quite specific but at least it gives us an indication of ARM's interest.

Acer confirms Timeline ultra-thin notebook production problems

From Digitimes -

Acer chairman JT Wang has confirmed that the company's new Timeline ultra-thin notebook product line is facing a panel shortage. But he pointed out that Acer has already found a new panel supplier and the shortage will be solved soon. Only three models out of a planned ten will see delays, of around eight days, due to low panel yields, so there will not be any significant affect on shipment volumes.

Century Netbook Stand with DVD and Hard Drives

From Akihabara News -

The Century Netbook Stand is an all-in one dock that features a cooler, a DVD Super Multi drive, an additional hard drive, as well as a USB hub. It is a convenient package for adding features to your netbook for the times you need them - whether on the road or at your desk.