Sony announces VAIO W netbook – finally uses the term netbook
Sony's technically had a netbook available since it released the Vaio P but instead sold it at ridiculously high prices compared to it's weak specs. Now in a more logical move they've decided to actually release a computer with netbook specs and call it a netbook. Funny huh? In any case, the most intriguing aspect of this VAIO W netbook series is the 1366 x 768 resolution offered in the 10.1 inch screens. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come with more netbook manufacturers releasing netbooks with higher resolution displays. The downside is that I've heard murmurs that the battery life on it's 3 cell version will only be 2 hours. We'll have more on this model as it develops.
Full Specs:
# Intel Atom N280 processor
# 1GB DDR2 SDRAM
# 160GB HDD
# Built-in MOTION EYE Camera and microphone
# Memory Stick PRO Duo with MagicGate functionality
# SD memory card slot
# Atheros 802.11 b/g/n
# Integrated Stereo
# A2DP Bluetooth
# 10.1 inch 1366 x 768 resolution LED backlit XBRITE-ECO LCD display
# Intel HD Audio
# Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950
# 2 USB 2.0 ports
# Windows XP Home
The netbook will be available in August for a price of $499. Think you may pick one up?
Tagged: Sony VAIO W
doubt I will pay $499 for this…or ANY netbook. Sony (and others now trying to charge $450+) are simply trying to capitalize on the runaway popularity of netbooks. And it’s only a 10.1″ screen for this crazy price?!
If people really understand what a netbook is designed for (simple web surfing, very inexpensive, very small and lightweight, very slow processor, 30-60 minute continuous usage by end user) then they will easily find great netbooks for $279-$399 street price.
Good points Eric,
I think Sony will have to rely on it’s brand recognition to pull in any sales on this one.
$499 is a little high – although I do like the better resolution in the screen
[...] and a leg for them. Then they finally acknowledged that this practice was silly and released their "first netbook" I had the pleasure of reviewing this netbook and thought it was great.Here we are today and [...]