According to China Times (Chinese), Asus will introduce a new model of the Asus Eee PC with 8.9" LCD in January next year. (That's next month, or rather, next week.) While the article did not quote a price, it did mention that the Eee PC's 7" LCD currently cost about USD40 while 8.9" LCDs cost about USD50 to USD60. This would imply the relatively slight price difference would result in only a slight price increase for the new model. If so, it should be enough reason for most buyers to hold off buying the current model and wait for the new model instead.
However, given that much rumors and contradictory reports have surrounded the Asus Eee PC's introduction, I would not take the report as gospel truth at this time, especially since it does not jive with the previous announcements of 2nd generation models in April. It simply does not make any economic sense for Asus to be releasing new previously un-announced models so soon even as it has a difficult time filling the demand for the original models.
For Asus' sake, I hope that this news is officially confirmed or refuted as soon as possible.
Translated (into English) article can be read here.
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Thursday, December 27, 2007
8.9" Asus Eee PC to be Launched January?
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4 comments:
In order to fit an 8.9 inch screen, Asus is either going to have to redesign the lid to move the speakers and webcam or build an overall larger case to accomodate a larger screen and larger keyboard.
Either way, that will probably drive up the cost a bit, as Asus won't be able to just slap the display into existing units. So even if the larger display doesn't cost much more, I'd expect to see the larger unit sell for at last $100 more.
But yeah, I'd also be surprised to see something like this ship as early as January.
Is there an info about the resolution of the panel?
Hi brad,
I don't know exactly the dimensions of the 8.9" LCD. But if it is one of the newer wide screens, there should be room for the webcam and probably the speakers along the top border. It will be an extremely tight fit.
Something tells me though the new model, if ever it is released, will probably use the same keyboard as this particular model is widely used by other brands such as Kohjinsha. Meaning it is cost-effective. :)
Hi malte,
I am still trying to get the details on this model, assuming it really exists. Will post any new info immediately.
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