Technically, Acer is adding a new netbook model to the U.S. Aspire One lineup so I guess you could call it “next-generation,” but I see it as a bigger version of the old generation. ;) Essentially, the AOD150 is mostly the same under the hood as the original, but offers a 10.1-inch display instead of an 8.9-incher and a 6-cell battery standard. At this point, the Intel Atom N280 and GN40 are either available or just around the corner, so I would have hoped to see an upgrade in the CPU. Still, $349 is a decent value for these specs and minor improvements:
- 1.6GHz Intel Atom (N270) + Intel GMA 950
- 1 GB of RAM
- 160 GB hard drive, 5400 RPM
- Windows XP with SP3 (note, I don’t believe there is a version with Linux available; at least not yet)
- 1024xs600 resolution
- Three USB ports, 802.11g, integrated webcam (still no Bluetooth)
- 2.95 pound weight and 10.2” (W) x 8.0” (D) x 1.31” (H) in size.
For the money, this is a pretty solid bit of hardware. With the extra room, Acer was able to move the mouse buttons from the sides of the trackpad to below it, which is a more traditional placement. They kept the properly placed, correctly sized Right-Shift key too. Thank you, I say. Thank you.
You should be able to find the bigger Aspire One at Acer retailers and online here in the U.S. now. Our mates in the UK have already a crack at this netbook. Anyone across the pond have some hands-on thoughts to share? Are you getting the previously promised up to 7 hours of battery life and maximum fun? :)
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