BenQ Joybook Lite U102 Lightweight Netbook With 10.1″ Display

BenQ has announced its new ultra-portable netbook – Joybook Lite U102, which comes with beautifully sculpted casing in polished obsidian finish. The new BenQ Joybook Lite U102 equipped with 10.1 inch UltraVivid widescreen display, Intel Atom N270/N280 processor, and Intel 945GSE Chipset. In addition, the Joybook Lite U102 also has built-in high-resolution 1.3 megapixel webcam, crystal-clear built-in speakers, and integrated microphone with smart noise suppression and echo cancellation. Furthermore, the netbook integrated bluetooth 2.1, wide-coverage WiFi, and optional high-speed 3.75G HSUPA connectivity, which has a shortcut key makes it easy to switch between Wi-Fi and 3G to expanded connection essentials. The netbook also comes with comfortably 90 percent of full-size QWERTY keyboard for more ergonomic, error-free typing, while an expanded touch pad makes scrolling web pages much easier. Apart from that, it also accompanied by an unusually petite AC adapter where light to tote at around 200g.


Features of BenQ Joybook Lite U102

* 10.1 inch UltraVivid LED-backlit screen with resolution 1024 x 600 pixels
* Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz /Intel Atom N280 1.66GHz CPU
* Intel 945GSE Chipset
* Intel GMA950 graphics
* 1GB DDR2-533
* 160GB (5400rpm) SATA HDD
* 1.3-megapixel webcam
* Genuine Windows XP Home Edition operating system
* 1 year Overseas Regional Warranty (ORW)
* Ethernet, 802.11b/g WiFi, , 3.75G HSUPA connectivity
* Bluetooth 2.1
* Three USB 2.0 ports, mic, headphone
* 4-in-1 card reader
* 90% full QWERTY keyboard
* Battery 3-cell operate time up to 3 hours and 6-cell battery up to 6 hours battery life

The netbook measures just 260 x 186 x 18.5 mm and weighs only 1.05kg (with 3-cell battery). The new BenQ Joybook Lite U102 netbook currently available in Taiwan, China, and Thailand through selected leading retailer but the price has yet to be announced.
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Mobinnova élan revisited, UI examined, lust factor increased exponentially

For those wondering why Windows CE is the OS of choice for the upcoming Mobinnova élan, observe. We got our first dose of élan love sans-trade show floor chaos yesterday from the team at netbooknews.com and as promised, today we get a look at the software side of things. One word: Sick. Mobinnova’s Henry Lin drops by this time to help show off the ridiculously sexy 3D UI the company slapped together for this little guy and we have to say, we’re impressed. NVIDIA’s Tegra processor facilitates very smooth transitions for a graphics-heavy UI — and all this on software that isn’t yet in its release state. We said it about ASUS’ Eee Keyboard and we’ll say it about the élan; we want 10 of them and we want them now. As a side note, a quick tip for the camera operator on this vid: Next time try to hit an angle from the get go so your reflection doesn’t bounce back every time the screen goes dark. It’s ok though, we still love you for bringing us some solid élan goodness… And for sticking out your tongue. Hit the jump for the vid and get ready to want this bad boy even more than you did yesterday.


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Android-powered Nokia netbook to hit carriers next year

While less-than-popular crossover devices like the Internet Tablet line and the E90 pictured above might not be overly pleased by the news, Android fans may be excited to learn that Nokia is reportedly eying Google’s OS for a next-gen product. While Bloomberg is fairly certain that the outcome of Nokia and Intel’s efforts will be a new line of netbooks and/or smartbooks, Lazard Capital Markets analyst Daniel Amir takes things in a slightly different direction with the following statement:

In our conversations with ODMs, we have confirmed that Nokia is planning to enter the netbook market with a Google Android, ARM-based netbook that would be sold at carriers. Considering this market is dominated by the PC players, we believe Nokia could face an uphill battle to succeed in this market.

Considering we know for a fact that Nokia and Intel have been working on some new products, it seems odd that Nokia would enter uncharted territory with ARM as well. So yeah, we’re going to go ahead and keep the rumor tag on this one despite claims of confirmation because, well, you know. Stranger things have certainly happened however, especially where our friends in Finland are concerned, so it will be interesting to see how this one plays out. Could Nokia be preparing to enter an already-cluttered netbook market with multiple Intel devices and one or more ARM devices?
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NVIDIA Plans to Release Tegra Based Netbook by November 2009

Previosly we mentioned about NVIDIA’s first low cost Tegra based MID (Mobile Internet Device), now the famous graphics solutions provider has just announced new plan to release its own netbook based on Tegra, an ARM based processor that is believed to be lower power but yet powerful enough in handling HD (High Definition) media decoding and playback on portable devices.



The Tegra processor is based on multiprocessor architecture in which each of the internal unit is responsible for own specific tasks such as hardware decode, Flash acceleration, web based applications and etc that make it so efficient and powerful in delivering great visual experience. The earlier news disclosed that the initial prototype could be built by Mobinnova that contains 8.9-inch LCD screen, full wireless 802.11b/g and 3G network connectivity for impressive HD media and internet browsing experience. As expected, it will have to stick back to Windows CE for now, even though it is expected to run on Google Android Operating System soon when the software porting is matured.

NVIDIA’s spokesperson further disclosed that the Tegra based netbook will be price tagged at around $244 and reach consumer market space by November this year. This will definitely another good news for ARM lovers who would like to see new entry to the netbook market which is currently monopolized by X86 based solutions from Intel and VIA Technologies.
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Asus Disney Themed Netbooks For Kids Ages From 6-12

Asus and Disney have teamed up to create two different Disney themed netbooks that specially designed for kids ranging in ages from 6-12. Named as ASUS MK90 and MK90H, the netbook has been featured with a spill-proof keyboard and ShockShield protection for prevent data lost when in a fall. Available in Princess Pink and Magic Blue, it allows the kids to pick and choose their favorite theme such as Club Penguin, WALL-E, Hannah Montana, and JONAS.



The Disney themed netbook has more than 40 robust parental control options to protect kids from their never ending curiosity. Besides that, it also come with a sizable software including Disney-branded media management software (Disney Mix), photo software (Disney Pix), games, widgets and etc.

It runs on an Intel Atom N270 processor with 1GB of DDR2 RAM, features with a 8.9-inch LED backlit screen with 1024 by 600 resolution, 0.3-megapixel webcam and has built-in a VGA port and 3 USB ports. In addition, it also comes with a multi-card reader and a battery that supports up to 5 hours.

The netbooks are expected to be available at the end of July and is priced at $349.99.
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HP Mini 5101: Very pretty

I’ve been rounding up a lot of ultralights - I wouldn’t call this a netbook - and this looks to be one of the purdiest of the bunch. The 5101 will cost about $449 and runs an Atom processor. It has a 10-inch screen and full keyboard.

Look for more of these “ultralights” to pop up this year. Notebook manufacturers have realized that selling a tiny laptop for $5 and a few bottle caps was not a very good strategy and so they’re rethinking this whole “netbook” moniker. You’ll see ultralights - smaller notebooks with more powerful hardware - and MIDs like the iPod Touch or whatever Nokia is planning.

HP Blends Functionality, Durability and Style with New HP Mini PC

PALO ALTO, Calif., June 24, 2009 – HP today unveiled its top-of-the-line Mini PC for on-the-go professionals who demand a stylish, yet durable fully functional companion PC.

The HP Mini 5101 features a sturdy, lightweight anodized aluminum display enclosure with a black, brushed finish. Complementing the aluminum is the use of magnesium alloy in the lower case of the Mini frame. Soft-touch paint on the base and palm rest further advance the PC’s look and feel. This combination of materials, an industry first in the netbook category, not only delivers an eye-catching design, but also improves durability.

Furthering the stylish look of the HP Mini 5101 is a newly designed, spill-resistant keyboard that is 95 percent of a full-size QWERTY keyboard. It features a visually open and spacious keyboard design with keys raised from the surface. HP DuraKeys, a clear coating over the keys, makes the keyboard 50 times more resistant to visible wear than keyboards without it.(1) In addition, the mouse buttons are located in the traditional space below the touchpad, making for a familiar user experience.

“HP Mini PCs have no equal when it comes to industrial design, use of innovative materials and overall feature sets,” said Ted Clark, senior vice president and general manager, Notebook Global Business Unit, Personal Systems Group, HP. “The HP Mini 5101 is truly a work of art, a sophisticated companion PC crafted for the trend-savvy mobile professional who needs functionally, durability and style.”

Starting at 2.6 pounds,(2) the fully functional and durable HP Mini 5101 is an ideal companion PC for the on-the-go professional. It features a large 10.1-inch diagonal LED display available in either WSVGA or high-definition (HD)(3) resolutions. Customers can also choose either the four-cell battery for lighter weight or six-cell battery for longer battery life. When configured with the optional six-cell battery, the HP Mini 5101 delivers up to eight hours of battery runtime.(4)

Mobile professionals can stay ultra-productive with the HP Mini 5101 PC’s small, low-power Intel® Atom processor, which enables the unit to run cooler, use less power and improve battery life. A fast-performing 7,200 RPM hard drive comes standard with the unit. Alternatively, an optional Solid State Drive (SSD) is available in either 80 or 128 gigabytes.

An optional, integrated Gobi-powered HP Mobile Broadband module allows users to conveniently access the Internet, corporate intranet, email and other critical information around the world.(5) Other wireless technologies include integrated Wi-Fi Certified WLAN(6) and optional Bluetooth® 2.0. An integrated 2-megapixel webcam allows for easy still-image capture, web-conferencing or video-enhanced instant messaging(7) with no additional hardware.

HP QuickSync software, planned to be available as a web download in September, allows quick synchronization of the HP Mini with notebooks or desktops so users can avoid maintaining multiple documents, media files and email. Information also can sync to portable storage devices.

The versatility of the HP Mini 5101 can change how students learn and is the practical answer to providing each student continuous access to a PC in one-to-one computing. Its suite of wireless, (6) multimedia and security capabilities allows students to learn wherever they have Wi-Fi access – from the classroom, to the library, to their homes.

The HP Mini 5101 is built to last, featuring HP 3D DriveGuard, which offers a three-axis digital accelerometer chip that sends a signal to shut down the hard drive upon sudden movement or shock. The HP Panel Protection System includes a scratch-resistant acrylic LCD cover and magnesium hinge bracket for added durability in demanding environments.

The HP Mini 5101 has been engineered for reduced impact on the environment by eliminating or reducing substances of concern, using fewer resources and reducing energy consumption. Configurations of the HP Mini 5101 are ENERGY STAR qualified and are identified as HP Mini 5101 ENERGY STAR on HP websites and on www.energystar.gov. In addition the Mini 5101 is EPEAT Gold registered in the United States.(7)

New accessories designed for use with the HP Mini include a USB 2.0 port replicator that adds a variety of audio, networking and USB ports to allow greater productivity. A lightweight, functional messenger bag designed specifically for the HP Mini or a neoprene slip case offer added protection for professionals while on the go. Other accessories available for the HP Mini include a USB 2.0 docking station, external optical drive and USB-powered external speakers.

More information on HP Mini 5101 product specifications, images and other HP mobility solutions is available in an online press kit at www.hp.com/personal.

Pricing and availability
The HP Mini 5101 starts at $449(8) and is expected to be available in late July.

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NPD confirms: People are still confused by ‘netbooks’

The NPD released a new report that says, essentially, consumers have no idea what the hell a “netbook” is. Something like 60 percent of consumers who bought a netbook thought that it would have the same capabilities as a notebook. Even more troubling for the companies who produce netbooks is that only 58 percent people who bought a netbook instead of a notebook were satisfied with their purchase. That leaves 42 percent of people who are terribly upset.

I’ve long thought this was the case, and it all stems from the name “netbook.” Consider this:

Regular Joe: Hey what’s that?

Tech-savvy elitist, like Doug Aamoth: Why it’s a netbook!

Regular Joe: Oh, like an Internet book, like that Amazon thing?

Tech-savvy elitist, like Doug Aamoth: No, stupid, a netbook. You know, like a notebook?

Regular Joe: Oh, like a Trapper Keeper thing?

Tech-savvy elitist, like Doug Aamoth: No, notebook, like a laptop.

Regular Joe: So why not just call it a laptop? Or, if you wanna go crazy, why not call it a “small laptop”? Why do we need a whole new word that, like, 10 people know what it means?

Tech-savvy elitist, like Doug Aamoth: Blah!

A simplification, yes, but illustrative of the point that NPD was trying to make: there’s still plenty of confusion out there about what netbooks are, and what they want to be. I hardly know, and I deal with them every day! Why would I want a gimped, extra tiny laptop, to use at a café? Hogwash. “Something to browse the Internet from your couch from.” No thanks, If I’m on the couch I’m either watching soccer or playing Xbox 360. I don’t want to be reading funny blogs or tweets while on the couch.

That’s just me, I understand, but it just seems like netbooks are largely pieces of junk. I’m happy to be corrected, of course, but I just have no use for them in my life, and it seems that there are several people who are in the same boat.

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Nokia / Intel announcement to lead to netbooks in Q3?

Just one short day after Nokia and Intel bestowed a great non-announcement upon us all, rumors are already flying. Bloomberg, citing the hit-or-miss Commercial Times as its sourceless source, suggests this morning that Nokia has placed orders with both Quanta Computer Inc. and Compal Electronics Inc. for netbooks/smartbooks.

June 24 (Bloomberg) - Nokia Oyj ordered netbook computers from Quanta Computer Inc. and Compal Electronics Inc., the Commercial Times reported, without saying where it got the information.

The Quanta netbook will use Intel Corp.’s Atom chip and will go on sale in the third quarter at the earliest, the Taipei-based, Chinese-language newspaper said.

Compal will make the so-called smartbook computer for Nokia using Qualcomm (NSDQ: QCOM) Inc.’s Snapdragon chip, the newspaper said.

Nokia is the world’s biggest mobile phone maker. Taiwan-based Quanta and Compal are the world’s two biggest makers of laptop computers.

An Atom-based Nokia netbook in Q3? A Snapdragon-based smartbook? Sounds nice. If these rumors do have any credence, perhaps the latter will materialize as a Snapdragon-powered Internet Tablet as opposed to a “smartbook”. Enter wait-and-see mode… Now.
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