NetbookTech

Packard Bell formally introduced the new 8.9 inch “dot” netbook last night at an event in Central London. Interestingly enough, the company claims the “dot” is the first netbook designed specifically for “mainstream consumers” (umm.. hello.. Packard Bell.. ever heard of the ASUS Eee PC?) though it’s not clear how this is the case. One look at the specs, and the “dot” looks like any other netbook system.

According to bit-tech.net, the “dot” features an Intel N270 Atom processor, 1GB of RAM, an 8.9 inch 1024 x 600 display, 160GB HDD, three USB 2.0 ports, a memory card reader, Wi-Fi, built-in webcam, and an optional 3G module. Windows XP will be the base OS – sorry no Linux option here – and the pricing will start at £299 with availability beginning in January of ‘09. Again.. it’s still not clear how this model is “consumer” centric…

[Check it out]

Why hello there.. is that a “dot” that I see you carrying? Yes.. above is the newly announced Packard Bell “dot” netbook – an 8.9 inch system that Packard Bell claims is the first netbook “specifically designed for consumers.” (yes I’m laughing at this too) The reasons why it thinks this way?

• It’s the first netbook that fits easily in a handbag (Umm.. my Aspire One fits into a handbag)
• It’s the first netbook that can be entrusted with a child on a school trip.. (umm.. they could take the Eee PC or Aspire One… or Dell Inspiron Mini 9.. etc etc)
• It fits nicely between a notebook and a PDA.. (um.. that would be the definition of a netbook.. not the dot please)
• It’s more comfortable than a smartphone (yeah I’d say all netbooks are more comfortable than a smartphone)..

So as you can see.. the dot was indeed specifically designed for consumers! Ha.. ok ok.. enough ridicule.. here are the specs to the Packard Bell dot.

• 8.9 inch 1024 x 600 resolution display
• Windows XP OS
• Intel Atom processor
• 1GB RAM
• Supports 6 cell battery
• 160GB HDD
• 3 USB ports
• 5 in 1 card reader
• Built-in Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g)
• Optional 3G module
• Built-in webcam

The Packard Bell dot will be available in Europe starting in November for a price of €399 ($584 U.S. Dollars).

[Check it out via SlashGear]