Netbook Evangelist | The blog with information for netbooks & tablets

Dell has retired their 12-inch Intel Atom-powered netbooks, they said today. The official reason – “It really boils down to this: for a lot of customers, 10-inch displays are the sweet spot for netbooks¿Larger notebooks require a little more horsepower to be really useful.”

That makes absolutely no sense, since it requires no additional hardware horsepower to power a 12-inch netbook v. a 10-inch netbook. The only difference is power usage from the bigger screen. And the two extra inches more than makes up for the shorter battery life or slightly heavier device from packing in more batteries. It only costs a few more dollars to build a 12-inch v. a 10-inch netbook, and users get a bigger screen with the same performance.

In fact, Intel’s official position on 10-inch netbooks is almost exactly the opposite of Dell’s. Intel says ?If you?ve ever used a Netbook and used a 10-inch screen size?it?s fine for an hour. It?s not something you?re going to use day in and day out.?

So why is Dell really discontinuing 12-inch netbooks?

Probably a couple of reasons. First, Intel doesn’t like 12-inch netbooks because they are deep into dual core territory, where Intel has much healthier profit margins. For casual users a 12-inch netbook with an Atom chip works just fine, and they are buying these devices instead of more expensive dual core machines. Intel has put pressure on OEMs to build netbooks that have 10 inch or smaller screens.

This includes direct pricing pressure – Intel prices Atom chips based on the size of the device screen. Anything over 10 inches is priced higher than devices with 10 inch or smaller screens. We think this is an inappropriate way to price Atom chips.

Dell may also be seeing customers who would otherwise buy a dual-core 13-inch or 14-inch Inspiron choosing the lower priced (and less profitable) 12 inch netbook instead. That’s something they aren’t going to be happy about.

Netbooks should be getting bigger, not smaller. That’s what users want.

While it may not have the same buzz as a new iPhone, Google’s announcement of a new computer operating system based on its Chrome Web browser, has certainly set tongues wagging across the Interwebs. It certainly has many of the hallmarks of a hot news story–the bitter fight between Microsoft and Google; the rise of low-cost, low-power computing in Netbooks; free vs. paid software.

But while we’re always in favor of more consumer choice and potentially lower prices, it’s not quite time for Microsoft to worry about losing its firm hold on the Netbook market.

Microsoft’s Windows XP is currently on 96 percent of Netbooks sold in the U.S. by some estimates (up from less than 10 percent in early 2008). When the similar idea of Netbooks running Google’s Android operating system was discussed back in April, we said:

The very first Netbooks ran Linux operating systems, usually with a custom front-end to give users easy access to a Web browser and other frequently used apps. But as well-intentioned as that plan was, it wasn’t until PC makers added the already archaic Windows XP operating system that the Netbook craze took off.

It wasn’t that XP was the perfect solution for small screens and low-power CPUs–it’s that consumers searching for a simple, low-cost second or travel laptop value ease of use over almost anything else. XP benefits from looking and feeling familiar to most users.

What we said then is just as true now, even if the OS is called Chrome and built specifically for PCs, rather than the smartphone-based Android. That familiar look and feel is what makes Netbooks so appealing to casual computer users, kids, and seniors.

We’ve seen plenty of attempts from PC makers to do essentially the same thing: build an attractive, useful front-end onto Linux in a Netbook. HP’s Mi Edition Mini and Asus’ early Eee PCs are good examples. Both offered easy access to open-source Web browsers and office productivity suites, but moving beyond the handful of choices presented on the desktop could be daunting for those who are only familiar with Windows.

Case in point: if something like your Wi-Fi connection, for example, isn’t working for some reason, even a relative Luddite can muddle through several obvious possible fixes in XP. Try getting a PC novice to figure that out under an unfamiliar operating system.

That’s not to say a Google OS for Netbooks wouldn’t have certain advantages. The combination of Gmail, Google Docs, and the Chrome Web browser makes for a compelling case that Google will be able to build a very usable front-end for consumers. But, by the time the first Chrome OS Netbooks are available–the second half of 2010–Microsoft’s Netbook-friendly Windows 7 will have already had about a year to maintain its iron grip on the Netbook market.

Netbooks now comprise 8 percent of the laptop market, but are we satisfied? Intel says no: its “Pine Trail” roadmap (that’s the code name for its next-gen Atom processors) reveals plans for an integrated CPU/GPU, with claims of saving space as well as battery life. While the graphics power likely won’t be as impressive as an Nvidia ION processor, it will change the landscape of a pretty fast-growing field. Here’s what we’d like to see in the near-future of Netbooks. Sound off and tell us what you’re looking for–that is, if you’re looking for a Netbook at all.

1. Better video. While Atom processors can handle YouTube and some HD video streaming (kinda sorta), there are no DVD drives on these little guys. Video-playing (especially streaming) needs to be silky-smooth, even in HD. Until then, Netbooks will never be truly great portable media devices, which they ought to be. After all, Web browsing is most of what we do with computers.

2. Smaller, please! But with larger keyboards. The whole 11.6-inch and higher trend is disturbing because it’s making semi-bulky Netbooks even larger. While it’s nice for some applications and those who want an affordable 12-inch laptop, this whole XL Netbook trend takes away from the whole gee-whiz “look how small my notebook is!” appeal that made Netbooks an overnight hit in the first place. What we’re really saying is: make better use of the size. Edge-to-edge keyboards and edge-to-edge screens should become the norm, and with better engineering, we’d like to see 10-inch Netbooks become even thinner and more compact. A Netbook could feel like a small paperback book, not a portable VCR.

3. Adopt modern operating systems. XP and Linux make Netbooks seem a bit lost in time, and honestly, a 10-incher at 1,024×600 gets crowded for programs made for larger screens. How about an optimized upgrade? Consider the iPhone OS: its great success was designing an interface specifically created for the size and ergonomics of the device’s screen. In fact, hey: a modified iPhone OS wouldn’t be a bad idea at all for a Netbook. While Windows 7 is aimed at going multiplatform, we also hope it considers optimizing the experience for smaller screens.

4. Get even cheaper. A large part of the Netbook appeal, to this point, has been price. At a cost of $43 for an Atom processor versus $133 for a Core 2 Duo, machines can be cheaper. But we want cheaper still. The challenge: come under 100 bucks. Already, Dell’s got a $299 Netbook, and HP’s got a subsidized Mini through Verizon. As “Pine Trail” makes its way through the Netbook landscape, it would be really, really great if those old Atom N270 processors could be discounted into ultra-cheapie models.

5. Explore the tablet. Is that so wrong? Opening a minikeyboard and screen can solve some mobile writing issues, but a regular smartphone can do many of the tasks we associate with “mobile computing.” Make the screen larger (for instance, a tablet), and have an optional keyboard (software and/or otherwise), and perhaps we’ll have a more media-friendly mobile PC than the bulkier, thicker Netbook population. Is this Apple’s plan? Perhaps. But it should, possibly, be everyone’s. We’re already starting to see some touch screens hit the Netbook space: Dell’s education-targeted Latitude 2100 offers it as an option, and the Asus has a swiveling touch-screen Netbook on the horizon. It’s only the beginning.

6. Be more like phones. Phones are our future Netbooks, and it’s becoming clearer every day. Android, BlackBerry, and the iPhone OS are developing new ways to get tasks done in palm-size miniapps. Interfaces are being revolutionized. Meanwhile, Netbooks are using the same flip-top keyboard-and-screen concept that’s been circling around since the days of the original PowerBook. The more future-oriented design, the better (like the dual-screened Asus prototype shown above, provided it doesn’t suck down batteries like Dr. Pibbs).

Dell has struck deal with several telcos from all around the world to bundle its 10-inch Inspiron Mini 10 netbook with 3G services some time this year. DigiTimes is reporting that along with China Mobile, Dell will also sell the Inspiron Mini 10 bundled with a 3G subscription through the following telcos: Vodafone in Europe, Australia and New Zealand, AT&T in the US, M1 and Starhub in Singapore, and Maxis in Malaysia. Currently, the Dell Inspiron Mini 10 retails for several hundred dollars, but it wasn’t specified how low it would sell bundled with a 3G plan. It may be free, it may cost $99. Either way, it will be a better deal to some, especially those who need to connect to the Internet on the go.

Microsoft may be on its way to vanquishing Linux in the war to dominate netbook operating systems, but the ground could be shifting against Windows.

An NPD Retail Tracking Service report states the Windows installation rate on netbooks has grown from 10 per cent in the first half of 2008 to 96 per cent in February 2009.

With netbooks touted by analysts and open-source enthusiasts as the way for Linux to beat Windows, Microsoft’s Windows flacks have seized on the study.

Windows communications manager Brandon LeBlanc has crowed that far from the netbook being an opportunity for Linux, the exact opposite is true. “A number of analysts and researchers following the space see ample evidence indicating customers really DO want netbook PCs to work like their larger brethren – and that the way the vast majority of consumers make that happen is by buying a netbook PC with Windows.”

Rubbing in the salt, LeBlanc added: “Not only are people overwhelmingly buying Windows, but those that try Linux are often returning it,” he said.

Why, you might ask? LeBlanc: “Because users simply expect the Windows experience. When they realize their Linux-based netbook PC doesn’t deliver that same quality of experience, they get frustrated and take it back.”

Notebook or Netbook? It’s a question for the ages, or at least for anyone shopping for a new portable PC. Buy.com has the Acer Aspire One Netbook for a tantalizing $289.99 shipped. The hitch: it’s a refurb.

The last time I posted about the Aspire One, it was $309.99 new. However, this refurb has much beefier specs, including 1GB of RAM, a 120GB hard drive, and Windows XP instead of Linux.

The One also features a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor, an 8.9-inch screen, a Webcam, and 802.11b/g wireless. It’s modeled in sapphire blue, which I can tell you firsthand looks mighty attractive.

That’s because I’ve got one of these babies right here. You can read about my experiences with it in The Netbook Diaries, but I’ll sum up: it’s a great little travel companion if you don’t mind a slightly cramped keyboard and screen and have easy access to AC power (battery life bites).

This configuration sells for around $370 new, so if you don’t mind a 90-day warranty instead of the usual 12 months, the refurb is definitely a good deal. If Buy.com runs out, you can get the same model for the same price from TigerDirect.

Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-13845_3-10145607-58.html

Nowadays it doesn’t matter who you are – times are tight. If you don’t have money, well, it is what it is. If you have money, you’re certainly careful before you part with it. But, people are still born and die – life goes on. And we still want new toys and technology. Sometimes it’s more than a “want”, it’s a “need”. All that being said, yes, people are still buying technology. But what are they buying?

Q4 2008 PC sales figures are the worst in five years (CNET) with zero growth overall. Acer overtook Apple for the #3 spot in the U.S. computer market (Apple Insider). So, what does that tell you about netbooks? Anybody will tell you the netbook market is growing and growing fast (ComputerWorld). Coming off of a honeymoon at CES (redOrbit), netbooks are now geared up to make their way to the business world as well (Information Week).

The price point for netbooks currently is in the sub $400 range. Several announcements have wireless providers teaming up with netbook manufacturers to even get that price point down further (See Dell and AT&T offer Inspiron Mini 9 for $99 and RadioShack Offers $99 Acer Netbook With AT&T). What now that the price of netbooks seems to be falling and driving prices down even further?

Business people know that it’s all about margin. And the simplest, easiest way to increase margin on a netbook is to cut out the operating system. That’s right – don’t pay Microsoft. Which means, don’t put on Windows XP and Vista isn’t even an option. This clearly is an opportunity to offer variations of Linux to the unwashed masses. Purists may hate it – having their beloved operating system now in use by mere mortals but, this could spark the Linux revolution that diehard fans have been waiting on. Those familiar with the OS know the stability, performance (especially important on the CPUs in this form factor) and ease of use that Linux offers.

The ramifications of this when it comes to support, accessories and software are enormous. Welcome Linux enthusiasts to a brave new world!

Now you’ve seen the little darling – but your heart hasn’t fallen yet. Yes, it’s love at first sight but you’ve been burned before, right? Here’s 5 reasons you’ll fall in love with the Asus T91 Eee PC.

1. The most obvious is the way that it converts to a tablet. Why is this important? Because with netbooks, you have that small keyboard, a mouse that… well manners doesn’t allow me to use those words. So, the tablet becomes a savior. And, of course, it’s touch screen.
2. GPS – Just in case you’re lost… no, for real, there are many applications in which a GPS is indispensable and if you’re out “in the field” this can be fantastic. GPS – it’s not just for maps anymore.
3. WiMax-ready: As more and more communities adopt WiMax, this will become more of an issue but you’re netbook will be ready if your town doesn’t haven’t this in place today.
4. TV Tuner – You really need this one, right? Seriously, YES, you do! Not that you’ll be sitting around watching Hogan’s Heroes on TVLand for hours at a stretch, but this can be a great tool for making recordings and then being able to use that in your videos later.
5. It’s a Hybrid – No, not two power sources, we’re talking storage devices – solid state and hard drive. The solid state takes a beating and keeps on ticking.

Now, we just need to see the price tag!

Much debate exists regarding the best OS for netbooks. Obviously, it seems Windows XP is predominant, but why?

In this mini-computer/I use this thing primarily for internet access/student pc/soccer mom on facebook environment it’s certainly not for ease of use or a familiar operating system.

I did a little experiment over the summer. I installed Ubuntu Linux on the family PC and walked away. That’s right! I left them there hanging – no support, whatsoever! Guess what? Not one, I REPEAT, not one said “I want my Windows XP back!’. With Firefox, Pidgin and OpenOffice they were cooking with gas and I neither got food burned nor was short-sheeted.

My point in dredging this back up is simple. XP is a pig that you can’t put lipstick on when you’re running it on Atom. Casual users may not notice performance decreases. BUT – when my wife complains “this thing’s slow” when she’s used to running on a 3g Vista desktop, well, it’s got to make you wonder.

So, please allow me to move to our next victim. Wow,  Android’s running on a netbook and it’s blasted all over the web (yes, me too!). Now what kind of selection of applications do you have? Uh, uh – yes, keep studdering. Linux has support from a wide variety of sources and if you need something, it’s out there. Most of the time it’s free or darn close to it. Remember guys, this is a computer not a smartphone.

Personally, I think Linux has finally come home. This is a perfect setting for it. Finally… it’s not just for geeks anymore!

Much hoopla has been made about Sony’s Vaio Pocket. The Net seems to be a buzz with stories about this little wonder machine and IMHO it’s all a bunch of marketing hooey. Sony has been leaking stories of this netbook to it’s friendlies but I’m here to tell you the truth – it’s a dog. Why? Here’s my three reasons – price, price and price.

Like the rest of the big boys, such as Dell, HP and others, MARGIN is everything and for these players, this market segment isn’t worth the trouble. Look at the clear winners – ASUS and Acer. These two companies, and my hat’s off to them, have broken an entirely new segment  wide open. These companies are not competing in the sub $500 sgement but in the sub $400 segment. If I, or anyone was going to spend over $500 on a laptop, I’d get a full-fledged notebook computer. My bet is that there is no “premium netbook niche”. Anyone spending that kind of money is going to buy a real computer or a low-end Macbook.

A netbook appeals to people because it is what it is – a simple, low-cost computer designed for internet access. It’s perfect for  students, moms and that second computer to leave by the couch when you’re too lazy to go to your desktop for a URL you just saw on TV.

After spending two decades in high tech, let me share with you a common mistake made by companies – especially big ones. Don’t play outside your sandbox. If you’ve been successful doing something – keep doing it. Don’t be distracted and think “we ought to do that, too”. Far too many Goliaths have been brought down like that. Focus on what you do best and ride it out.

For consumers, there is safety in numbers and clearly the people who are going to provide you the best support is the companies where they have built there business off of the product you bought. With the big guys, you’ll always be a second-class citizen, a cheap-skate, a slacker. You’ll end up with support that is a different number (probably forwarded to India) and your only salvation will be the large number of owners on the internet with your make and model who normally will bend over backwards to tell you how they solved the exact same problem you’re having.

Good luck, Sony! But, I think the only buyers you’ll have is those that have more money than sense.