Qualcomm In an ASUS Netbook Closer to Reality?

Image 3 for post First Qualcomm Snapdragon netbook concept is a tablet( 2008-12-05 18:26:53) I’ve been waiting for a real differentiator in the “me-too” netbook space for a while. In December, I pulled out my crystal ball (OK, it’s really a toy Magic 8 Ball) and saw a Qualcomm netbook running Android. Today, DigiTimes says that ASUS is considering a netbook built on a Qualcomm platform. The devices would likely be branded under the Eee PC line, although the ARM CPU wouldn’t support Microsoft Windows. I’d expect it be similar to the concept device that Qualcomm has already shown but with the traditional Eee PC styling. Maybe even a small clamshell design, akin to the Sony VAIO P, but smaller.

There’s two schools of thought here. One is comprised of folks that see netbooks as small notebooks that should run the same OS and apps as their larger counterparts. The other thought is that a netbook is a portable web and communications device. That’s where a device such as the one I’m envisioning comes to mind: notebook look-and-feel, but integrated voice and data communications components, light operating system and long-battery life. I agree with those that say Google’s Android isn’t optimized for a device larger than a handset. I don’t expect Google to limit Android to a 3- or 4-inch display over the long haul, however. If we see that develop and ASUS does whip one of these up a Qualcomm-based netbook, I’ll be the first in line to try it.

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