With the netbook segment over-saturated with options, it’s proving difficult for manufacturers to differentiate their machines. Sadly FIC’s 10.4-inch CW001, freshly revealed by the FCC, doesn’t quite manage it, with the same old Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz processor, up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM, 2.5-inch SATA-II hard-drive and an ExpressCard slot. Unfortunately, contrary to some reports, there’s no integrated optical drive (which would have at least given the CW001 something to crow about).
Everex are planning to take on the ASUS Eee PC 1000-series with a new 10.2-inch budget ultraportable notebook, according to sources at the company’s manufacturing partner FIC. The leak suggests that the devices will include 3G WWAN connectivity with WiMAX an option; a decision on processor has obviously not been made, as both Intel’s Atom or a rival from VIA’s stable have been mentioned. It will be joined by new 8.9-inch ultraportables, adding WiMAX to the Cloudbook range.
Perhaps somebody at VIA forgot to send FIC the OpenBook memo, but the company has just unveiled a new budget ultraportable seemingly based on the previous-gen NanoBook reference design. The notebook is unusual because FIC intend both VIA and Intel powered versions: the CE2A1 will run VIA’s C7 processor while the CW0A1 is based on Intel’s Atom. Both will have an 8.9-inch screen, 160GB hard-drive and a 1.3-megapixel webcam.
We have been following OpenMoko development and FIC’s Neo1973 phone that will be powered by OpenMoko platform. Many things has happened since our last coverage and I’m excited to see where this platform is heading. OpenMoko community website is now officially in business, where you can find Wiki, SVN, Mailinglist, and Bugzilla (currently still password protected) on it.
Neo1973 phone has been delayed due to some changes deemed necessary by the development team, but I would rather wait, as it will be worthwhile. We have new pictures Sean sent to us of the Neo1973 phones, and a look inside the phone itself.
I’m not saying this because I’m a Linux user and developer, but i LOVE OpenMoko mockup interface so far. It reminds me of my favorite Window manager, Enlightenment with its brushed metal background and such. Looking at OpenMoko, makes me wanting iPhone less and less (well i prefer open source over anything, any day) and i cant wait to dig in and make some hacks and application for this smartphone. Enjoy the screenshots of the OpenMoko interface.
Photo above is taken during exclusive party in Vegas where i met Sean from OpenMoko.
JP
