Asus to launch a $180 smartbook in early 2010

Asus Smartbook prototype (Summer, 2009)

Asus smartbook prototype (Summer, 2009)

Asus CEO Jerry Shen says that the company will launch a smartbook during the first quarter of 2010. There aren’t any further details, but smartbooks are typically defined as low power, 3G-enabled ultraportable laptops with ARM-based processors. There’s no word on whether the Asus smartbook would run Windows CE, Linux, or Google Android, but the company did briefly demonstrate a Google Android-powered netbook this summer before deciding it wasn’t ready for the world to see and hiding it away.

The prototype was based on a 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor which enables long battery life,  and integrated GPS, 3G, WiFi, and graphics capabilities. But it’s not at all clear whether the upcoming Asus product will be built on the same platform as the early prototype.

Shen says the new device will run about NT 6,000 which is roughly $184 US.

via Shanzai


Posted on Friday, October 30th, 2009, 8:45 am by Brad
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  • If it comes to the US with about the same price - $184, I think it will do quite well; IMO.
  • retiredinOhio
    And eventually $99 at CVS.
  • MonkeyKing1969
    People remember for a Smart book the cost is 90% in the backend where you pay for the 3G dataplan. You can buy $99 netbook NOW, it just costs you $1,600 in 3G fees over the next two years added to that low 'Ninty-Nine dollar' price.
  • vēer
    Now that what id like to see, always connected, loooong battery life and low weight :)!
  • BoloMKXXVIII
    Hopefully they can get the hardware/software integration right the first time. Please let these be sold without being tied to a data plan.
  • It would be like getting a cell phone unlocked(?). One would pay a little more but I think it would be worth it so one could chose ones own service.
  • jabailo
    Where is it? I'm tired of the future...
  • Tenrou
    "Linux or Google Android"? When did Android stop being Linux if I may ask? "Android or some other Linux distribution" would have been a more appropriate wording if you feel you need to give Android some extra attention over other Linux based operating systems.
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