Acer has been developing a Chrome-based netbook since mid-2009, and its Chairman, JT Wang, has told DigiTimes, he wants it to be the first netbook out there when Chrome OS is released in the second half of 2010. [DigiTimes]

Other specs are unchanged from the current model, including 1GB memory, 160GB hard disk, and an on screen resolution of 1024 x 600 driven by Intel GMA graphics. No Nvidia Ion graphics, and no 3G…yet.

Meanwhile, Acer Japan has just confirmed an updated version of the D250. It runs Windows 7 Starter Edition, bumps the resolution up to 1280 by 720, and costs Y46,800 (about $553). It will be available there when Windows 7 arrives on October 22, but there's no word on when it will come to the U.S. [Netbooked and PC World]

Let's do some math! On this plan, your Atom-based netbook running Windows XP will set you back about $1160 in total, assuming you're somehow able to keep your internet usage below 200MB a month. (Note: Nobody does this.) If you want a slightly more realistic plan—a still-anemic 5GB a month—you'll have to step up to $60 and month, which pushes your cost of ownership to $1640.

Even a modest cellphone plan adds up a to a lot in the long term, but we expect something in return: decent calling plans, effectively unlimited data, and a free, or at least heavily subsidized handset. The only thing you're getting here is an oppressive transfer cap, some Wi-Fi hotspot access and about $100 off street price on a few modestly-specced netbooks. I guess if you're set on AT&T's data service anyway, it's not a terrible deal, but it's sure as hell not a good one. [AT&T]

AT&T to Offer New Suite of Mobile Broadband Netbooks Online and in Stores Nationwide
AT&T ConnecTech Service Also Launches in 2,200 Stores
DALLAS, July 2

AT&T* today announced an expansion of its mobile broadband-enabled netbook lineup. The new devices, which will be available in stores and online in the coming days, features three ultra portable mobile broadband netbooks - an Acer Aspire One, the Dell Inspiron Mini 10, and the Lenovo S10.

AT&T also announced it will begin offering AT&T ConnecTech(R) services specifically tailored for netbook customers through its more than 2,200 stores, providing three options of support for netbooks purchased from AT&T, with prices from $99 for remote online support to $199 for in-home technical support.

Netbooks from AT&T

AT&T will offer the Acer Aspire One throughout stores nationwide. The Dell Inspiron Mini 10 and Lenovo S10 will be available in multiple stores and all devices will be available for purchase soon online at www.att.com and other direct sales channels. The netbooks will cost $199.99 after mail-in rebate via AT&T Promotion Card with a two-year service contract (see below for additional terms).

The netbooks feature 10-inch screens and weigh less than 3 pounds. The promotional netbook pricing requires the purchase of a two-year AT&T DataConnect plan - including a 200MB plan for $40 per month or a 5GB plan for $60 per month. AT&T DataConnect plans offer consumer and small business subscribers access to the nation's fastest 3G mobile broadband network, along with unlimited use of AT&T Wi-Fi service, featuring more than 20,000 hot spots nationwide.

"Lightweight and connected, netbooks continue to interest consumers and small business customers," said David Christopher, chief marketing officer, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. "We expect that, paired with AT&T home broadband, Wi-Fi, and the nation's fastest 3G mobile broadband network, they'll have great appeal to busy, on-the-go consumers and working professionals. We're offering the latest and greatest connected devices."

The slim and light Acer Aspire One weighs 2.53 pounds and is equipped with an Intel Atom processor, Microsoft Windows XP Home, a 160GB hard drive, 1GB of memory, high definition audio support with stereo speakers, a built-in webcam with a video conferencing feature, and multiple ports for connecting to external devices.

The Dell Inspiron Mini 10 weighs 2.86 pounds and features Microsoft Windows XP Home, a 160GB hard drive, 1GB of memory, built in webcam, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator and integrated audio.

The Lenovo S10 supports thin and light computing, measuring less than 1 inch and weighing 2.63 pounds. For an always-connected experience, the netbook features 3G and WiFi and comes with 1GB of memory, 160GB of storage, Microsoft Windows XP Home and a built-in webcam. Extra features like VeriFace facial recognition technology make logging on quick and convenient, and a multitouch touchpad makes navigating web pages easy.

Today's news comes on the heels of AT&T's recent announcement, which highlighted the availability for small businesses of Acer, HP and Panasonic netbooks and laptops, featuring AT&T's embedded wireless technology, through AT&T's relationship with CDW, a provider of technology solutions.

Modders quangDX and DuPPs managed all kinds of sweet tricks with this European SNES; the console's "Eject" button actually ejects the disc from the optical drive, the "Power" button turns the system on and off, the system's USB ports are found in actual rewired SNES controllers, and the main circuitboard is mounted with Legos. I mean, it's like they deliberately tried to pull our heartstrings with that last one.

Other than that, it's got everything you'd want, including VGA-out, audio, ethernet, Wi-Fi, and an LED-lit SNES logo. You can't see it, quandDX and DuPPs, but we're applauding you. [AsoBitech via Engadget]

Acer Debuts Industry's First 11.6-inch Aspire One Netbook;
Part of Thinner, Lighter Second-Generation Line

New 11.6-inch Model Delivers Mobile Productivity with Largest Netbook
Display, Full-Sized Keyboard; This and New 10.1-inch Model Provide Continuous Internet Access, Enhanced Battery Life

SAN JOSE, Calif., May 18, 2009 - Acer America, part of the world's third largest PC company1, today extends its industry-leading line of netbooks with two new models optimized for mobile customers - the industry's first 11.6-inch Acer Aspire One AO751h and the 10.1-inch Acer Aspire One AOD250.

The new Aspire One AO751h lets customers attain a new level of productivity and efficiency with its large 11.6-inch high-definition screen and full-sized keyboard. Thinner than previous generation netbooks, the AO751h still comes with all the same easy-to-use features, sophisticated design and incredibly portable form factor that have made Acer netbooks so wildly popular. The netbook's large 11.6-inch high-definition LED-backlit widescreen (16:9 ratio) display is large enough to easily view multiple windows and reduces the need to scroll to view Internet sites, providing a better end user experience. Plus, the full size keyboard is easier and more comfortable to use, even for touch-typists.

"As the worldwide leader in the netbook market, we designed our new 11.6-inch AO751h after careful consideration about how customers use and most enjoy their netbooks," said Sumit Agnihotry, vice president of product management for Acer America. "We predict that the larger display and keyboard will be a game-changer for mobile consumers looking to take it to the next level with the ultimate mobile device." Acer is the global market share leader in the netbook category with 30.5 percent marketshare with 1.8 million units shipped in Q1 2009 according to DisplaySearch2. The company will deliver these new offerings in the U.S. through its extensive network of retailers and distributors.

In addition, the Acer Aspire One AOD250 will satisfy the demands of mobile consumers who want a compact, light-weight netbook for Internet access and communications. With a 10.1-inch display and a thinner and lighter design than its predecessor, this new netbook is ideal for anyone on the go.

Agnihotry added, "These two new Acer Aspire One offerings will satisfy the needs of today's extremely diverse mobile users - from professionals who need a streamlined, highly mobile form factor to students who want a productivity-enhancing large keyboard and display. In all cases, Aspire One customers get a reliable, easy-to-use, stylish device that will let them remain connected."

The new Acer Aspire Ones models offer the ultimate in mobile Internet connectivity. They can provide continuous access to the Internet via WiFi 802.11b/g to browse websites, check email, make VOIP calls, and
enjoy online music. In addition, Acer Aspire One netbooks are the ideal device for the millions of people who are using the latest social networking platforms like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, to give them a
quick and easy way to post updates, send tweets, view and respond to video links, and stay connected. Select Acer Aspire One models come with the option for 3G broadband wireless connectivity.

Consumers can enjoy being productive and staying in touch even longer with the new Acer Aspire One netbooks; they deliver exceptional everyday battery life. The extended 6-cell battery for the AO751h can provide uptime of up to eight hours, while the 3-cell battery can provide four hours of uptime.2 The AO250's standard 3-cell battery can provide up to three hours and 15 minutes of battery life, while the 6-cell battery can provide up to six hours.2 The new devices use the latest Intel(r) Atom(tm) processors (N270 on the AOD250 and N270 or Z520 on the AO751h) that further extend battery life and power efficiency to deliver excellent mobile performance and Internet connections on the go.

Sleek, Eye-Catching Design is Highly Portable, Useful
The new Acer Aspire One models have been designed to be even more streamlined than their sales-leading predecessors; they now measure only one inch thin. The sleek aerodynamic design includes elegant touches
such as the color-rich chassis choices (Diamond Black, Ruby Red, Sapphire Blue and Seashell White) along with the metallic hinge with a colored accent. Both models weigh less than three pounds (2.75 pounds for the AO751h and 2.44 pounds for the AO250), so they won't weigh down a compact backpack or purse.

The Acer Aspire One AO751h uses a clever Multi-Gesture Touchpad that allows users to pinch, flick and swirl their fingers across the touchpad for more natural photo and video viewing as well as intuitive navigation of websites such as Google Earth. The Multi-Gesture Touchpad allows users to scroll, zoom in and out and flip through web pages, photos, spreadsheets and more. Both new models feature a soft-touch palm rest to increase typing comfort.

Packed with Additional Performance Features
The Aspire One AO751h has a high definition WXGA 11.6-inch CrystalBrite(tm) LED backlit display, offers the largest viewing area on a netbook. The Aspire One AO250's large 10.1-inch WSVGA LED backlit
display also includes a large viewing area for Web page navigation and reviewing documents. Well-equipped with a full 1GB of memory and 160GB of hard drive space, the new Acer Aspire Ones are ready for customers who want to take their digital media and files with them. Select new models will feature up to 2GB of DDR2 memory and up to a 250GB internal hard drive, providing even more capabilities and storage space for mobile enthusiasts.

The Acer Crystal Eye(tm) webcam delivers smooth video streaming and high quality images for online chats and business video conferences, even in low-light situations. The built-in digital microphone conveys superior voice quality, keeping background noise levels low and minimizing echoes. Consumers will enjoy music and video sound with the Dolby Headphones and two built-in stereo speakers. Connecting to the latest peripherals such as printers, a display and consumer electronics such as digital cameras is easy with the Acer Aspire Ones' useful ports (three USB 2.0, Ethernet, VGA) as well as Bluetooth capabilities that can be activated with the Easy Launch Bluetooth key. Both new models also feature a multi-in-one digital card
reader, while the AO751h also features a dedicated SD card slot.

Available Configurations Pricing and Availability
The new Acer Aspire One AO751h and AOD250 are available in several configurations. Sample configurations follow:

Acer Aspire One AO751h-1192 Specifications
* Intel(r) Atom(tm) Processor Z520 (1.22GHz, 490MHz FSB, 512KB L2
Cache)
* Genuine Microsoft Windows XP(r) Home (Service Pack 3)
* 11.6-inch WXGA 16:9 ratio Acer CrystalBrite(tm) High Definition
LED back-lit TFT LCD (1364 x 768 resolution)
* Mobile Intel(r) US15W Express Chipset
* 1024MB DDR2 533 MHz SDRAM Single Channel Memory
* Integrated Intel(r) Graphics Media Accelerator 950
* 160GB SATA 5400RPM Hard Drive
* Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader and Dedicated SD Card
* Acer InviLink(tm) 802.11b/g Wi-Fi CERTIFIED(r)
* Acer Crystal Eye Web Camera
* Two Built-in Stereo Speakers
* Three USB 2.0 Ports
* 6-cell Li-ion Battery (5200mAh)
* 11.18" (W) x 7.79" (D) x 1" (H)
* Sapphire Blue
* One-Year Standard Warranty
* Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price: $379.99

Acer Aspire One AOD250-1042 Specifications
* Intel(r) Atom(tm) Processor N270 (1.60GHz, 533MHz FSB, 512KB L2
Cache)
* Genuine Microsoft Windows XP(r) Home (Service Pack 3)
* 10.1-inch WSVGA 16:9 ratio Acer CrystalBrite(tm) LED back-lit
TFT LCD (1024x600 resolution)
* Mobile Intel(r) 945GSE Express Chipset
* 1024MB DDR2 533 MHz SDRAM Single Channel Memory
* Integrated Intel(r) Graphics Media Accelerator 950
* 160GB SATA 5400RPM Hard Drive
* Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader
* Acer InviLink(tm) 802.11b/g Wi-Fi CERTIFIED(r)
* Acer Crystal Eye Web Camera
* Two Built-in Stereo Speakers
* Three USB 2.0 Ports
* 3-cell Li-ion Battery (2600 mAh)
* 10.17" (W) x 7.24" (D) x 1" (H)
* Ruby Red
* One-Year Standard Warranty
* Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price: $298.00

The Acer Aspire One AO751h 11.6-inch netbook line has a starting manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) of $349.99. Several models are avaialble with an extended 6-cell battery at an MSRP starting at
$379.99. The Acer Aspire One D250 10.1-inch netbook line has a starting MSRP of $298. Models in these lines are available now.

The Acer Aspire One comes with additional preinstalled software includes Microsoft Works with Office Home and Student 2007 Trial, Microsoft Office Personal 2007, Acer eRecovery Management, Acer Launch Manager, Adobe(r) Reader(r), McAfee(r) Internet Security Suite, Microsoft(r) Office Trial 2007.

The new Acer Aspire One models come with a standard one-year parts and labor warranty, which can be extended to three years with the Acer Advantage service. Additionally, some models have longer warranties
offered through specific channel partners. All Acer netbooks are backed by toll-free service and support.

[Acer]

The leak may have come from Costco, but it's reasonable to assume that you'll be able to pick up the notebook from AT&T directly. There are no pricing details in the report, but the $99 precedent set by AT&T's last foray into on-contract netbooking doesn't seem unrealistic. [BGR]

An anonymous tipster passed on these hands-on photos along and full spec list to NetbookNews, though we can't confirm its authenticity:

Housing: 2.4 cm thick, 25.5 cm wide, 18.5 cm deep
CPU: Intel Atom N270 1.6 GHz
RAM: 1 GB
HDD: 160 GB
WLAN: 802.11a/b/g Atheros (goes with ath5k in the kernel 2.6.29er)
LAN: Attansic Gigabit (goes with atl1e in 2.6.29er kernel)
SATA: Intel ICH7 Controller SATA: Intel ICH7 controller
Display: 25.9 cm / 10.2 "diagonal with Glare (but bright enough that it doesn't matter)
Resolution: 1024 × 600
Sound: Intel HDA
VGA: Intel 945GME
Int.Cardreader: JMicron (goes with sdhci module after the command modprobe pciehp pciehp_force = 1)
Bluetooth: integrated (Broadcom chipset)
UMTS: "apparently" yes
Killswitch: for Wlan + Bluetooth
Touchpad: Synaptics (scroll down to the edge possible)
Battery: 3-cells (approximately 3 hours duration)

The only surprise here is the lack of an SSD. The spec list says it'll be a 160GB HDD, which is encouraging from a performance standpoint (the Aspire One's SSD's are slllooooooooow) but not so much from a toss-it-in-you-bag-without-thinking-about-it angle. The smallish battery is also a bit alarming, as the Aspire One, even in its previous smaller incarnation, was never know for great battery life. As for the OS, I wouldn't expect a change from the current XP/Linpus situation—the SUSE installation you see in the photos was apparently not the OS that came with the netbook. [NetbookNews via Slashgear]]

Given the slim design, this particular Aspire One model is presumed to be an SSD system—one that reintroduces an SD slot into the design for easy and cheap storage expansion. We know, that's not a lot of information. We'll keep an eye out for more deets. [macles via Engadget]

Buy.com has a "sapphire blue" Aspire One available for $260. The system is configured with an Atom N270 1.6GHz processor, 8.9" screen, 1GB RAM, 16GB SSD, Webcam, Wi-Fi, and Windows XP Home. It's a very typical netbook, and the next Aspire One isn't slated to be worlds better. [Buy via CrunchGear]

Of course, tech companies file patents these days the way I go through squares of TP after a night out eating Mexican, so don't think an Acer MID or tablet or whatever is coming tomorrow. Still, we have some details about what such a hypothetical device might entail thanks to the filing (gleaned by Electronic Pulp):

Arif Maskatia is the person listed as its inventor, which I take as to mean that he was the one who designed this MID. I can’t tell you what features this Acer MID will have exactly, but from what has been revealed in the design, it has a standard 3.5mm headphone jack, a pretty sizable screen (that I think supports touch), and a dock connector.

An Intel Atom chip powering the insides would also be a good guess. [Patent via Electronic Pulp

Amazon said best-selling holiday items this year included the Samsung 52-inch HDTV, the Apple iPod, the Acer netbook computer and Nintendo Wii.

Sure, "Samsung HDTV" and "iPod" aren't exactly model specific, but we get the point. Big HDTVs, iPods, the Acer Aspire One (along with other netbooks, surely) and the Nintendo Wii were the hot gadgets of Christmas 2008.

But geeze Amazon, doesn't anyone buy books anymore? [AFP via Maxconsole]

The 3G Aspire One goes on sale December 14th, and it looks to be a Radioshack exclusive for the time being. Packed with the standard 8.9" screen, 1GB of RAM, and 160GB of storage, this Atom-powered 3G laptop looks attractive at $99...until you realize that eligible AT&T plans start at $60/month.

Over the course of two years with service, this system will cost the user a total of $1,540. Internet access or not, I draw the line at my underpowered laptop purchases when they hit the triple digits.

The Acer Aspire one netbook with integrated 3G wireless technology, is available starting Dec. 14 exclusively at RadioShack stores nationwide for $99.99 when combined with qualifying AT&T mobile broadband service. (PRNewsFoto/RadioShack Corporation)

FORT WORTH, TX UNITED STATES

Innovative portable notebook technology for $99.99 when combined with qualifying AT&T mobile broadband service

FORT WORTH, Texas, Dec. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Starting Dec. 14, RadioShack Corporation (NYSE: RSH) becomes the first major U.S. retailer to offer an ultra-lightweight, mobile netbook Internet device with integrated 3G wireless technology. Netbooks, designed to fulfill people's growing needs for mobile access to Internet applications, are widely expected to be a hot growth area for the computer industry. The unique combination of technologies created for this launch to help people stay connected enhances RadioShack's reputation for offering innovative solutions at affordable prices.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081211/LATH540)

The Acer Aspire one netbook is priced at $99.99 for customers who sign up for a qualifying two-year AT&T DataConnect mobile broadband service agreement with plans starting at $60 a month. Once activated, this netbook allows people to easily access the Internet anywhere within AT&T's wireless network. The offer is available in 4,400 RadioShack company-operated stores through Dec. 24. Prices may vary outside the continental U.S. See stores or visit http://www.RadioShack.com for complete offer details.

"Many people internationally are already enjoying the portability, on-the-go connectivity and affordability of this emerging new technology," said Peter Whitsett, RadioShack's executive vice president - merchandising. "We are proud to introduce this concept in the U.S. by offering a netbook with integrated 3G functionality in addition to full Wi-Fi capability.

"RadioShack is offering this innovative technology solution at a very attractive price through our collaboration with Acer and AT&T," he continued. "Helping people stay connected during these challenging economic times illustrates our continued commitment to meeting their personal technology needs affordably."

The lightweight, 2.44-pound netbook includes 1GB memory, 160GB hard drive, built-in memory card readers and Windows XP software that supports the portable connectivity needs of commuters, students, travellers and mobile professionals. This allows everyone to keep in touch via email, participate in social networking sites such as Facebook or Twitter, use the built-in Web cam and crystal-clear LCD screen for video conferencing with family, friends and business associates, conduct online research, and a host of other online functions.

The Acer Aspire one 3G netbook comes equipped with the following features:

— Weighs 2.44 pounds
— Ultra-compact size measuring 9.8" x 6.7" x 1.1" (W x D x H)
— Stylish piano-black finish
— Built-in 3G capability
— 802.11b/g wireless (Wi-Fi)
— 8.9-inch LCD screen
— Built-in Web cam
— Intel(R) Atom(TM) processor
— Windows XP(R) Home
— 1GB memory
— 160GB hard drive
— Built-in memory card readers (dedicated SD and 5-in-1)