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October 12, 2008 9:29:14 PM CDT

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PC Makers See Big Trouble in Smaller 'Netbooks'

Posted Jul 21, 08 11:22 AM CDT in Business,  Technology 

(Newser) – Smaller and lighter than most textbooks, “netbooks”—the latest generation of computers used for light computing and surfing the web—are causing heartburn among PC manufacturers who see the low-cost innovation as a threat to already-slim profit margins, the New York Times reports. Perhaps more worrisome to giants like Microsoft and Dell is that the trend could signal a major industry shift.

The upstarts are challenging the notion that consumers prefer their machines come with built-in computing power rather than use what’s available online via so-called cloud computing. One Silicon Valley startup is launching a $300 “net-top,” offering basic functions while using a fraction of the electricity, and at a fraction of the size, of traditional desktops.

Source New York Times

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New Acer Aspire one netbook, an all-new communication device designed to make online activities fast, simple and cool.   (Business Wire)
Low-cost, scaled-down "netbooks" are used primarily for surfing the Internet and performing other basic functions like word processing.   (AP Photo)
At slightly more than 2.5 pounds, the HP Mini is smaller and lighter than many math or science books.   (AP Photo)
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Hewlett Packard  • computer hardware  • Dell Inc  • Netbooks  • Acer


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