I'm not quite sure what they're trying to say with these photos of them trying to stick much larger computers into their pockets. Are they saying that in the Vaio P photo the computer clearly won't fully fit in that pocket? Or are they just trying to show off their asses? In either case, uh, nice work? [Hachimakikou via Crunchgear]

They're so tight lipped with details, they wouldn't even answer a question asking what class of laptops this falls under (see: luxury product). We don't know much about the laptop so far, but the Model had no problem holding it up with one hand, so I'd assume it's pretty light. Dell also said something about using high quality materials in the design, and I'm guessing this thing is going to be super expensive. Anyways, here it is, the first look at the Adamo, Dell's Answer to the Macbook Air and Voodoo Envy 133.

Taking design cues from the custom Touchsmart interface, MIE streamlines the netbook experience by placing your most used apps into an efficient-looking homescreen. RSS Feeds, bookmarks, emails, music, photos and more are all available from this home screen. A click in any direction will take you deeper into the interface, which at times resembles Apple TV (and that's not a bad thing), but a quick tap of the Windows key will bring you right back to the home screen.

HP is also maintaining a high standard for the MIE user experience, allowing outside apps via a filtered download portal, but only ones that run properly on the hardware. So no, you can't try (and inevitably fail) at trying to run a high powered video editing app on your MIE netbook.

The Windows XP Mini 1000 will launch today at $400 for a smaller 8.9-inch screen, 512 GB RAM and 8 GB SSD. The 10.2-inch screen will cost an extra $50 and prices for other upgrades are still undisclosed. The MIE model will launch in January beginning at $380 for the 8.9-inch screen size. A red, designer VIvienne Tam Edition will be available in December for $700, WWAN 3G mobile broadband will be also available in select models starting in December and the Mini 1000 is expected to have a docking station accessory slated for a January release. [HP]

HP Expands Portfolio of Mini Companion PCs
Designed for Mobility, Social Media and Fashion

News Minis geared for “information snacking”

PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 29, 2008 – Following the success of its education-based mini
PC introduced in April, HP today expanded its line of companion PCs with three models
in the HP Mini 1000 family that address the specific needs of Internet-centric consumers,
mobile professionals, always-on social media enthusiasts and fashion-forward women.

These companion PCs provide a uniquely simplified Internet experience in an ultraportable
design. They share a sleek form factor – at less than 1-inch thick – with
lightweight portability at 2.25 lbs, a keyboard that is 92 percent that of standard PCs,
Brightview widescreen Infinity display with flush glass and LED backlight and a webcam.
The HP Mini will be made available worldwide in an array of configure-to-order options.

HP quote TBD

These companion PCs are geared towards information snacking and content enjoyment
versus the content creation capability found in fully functional Notebook PCs. They are a
complement to HP’s award-winning Notebook PC family.

The three models are as follows:

• The HP Mini 1000 features a piano-black finish with HP Imprint swirl design and
is powered by an Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz processor running Windows XP
Home, making the Web, critical files and PC applications easily portable. It
includes an Ethernet jack, 2 USB ports, built-in webcam and microphone. It
comes with wireless connectivity (WLAN,) and 3G versions are expected to be
available in December.

Configuration choices include screen size — 8.9-inch Brightview or 10.2-inch
diagonal Brightview widescreen Infinity display with1024 x 600 resolution —
and solid-state or mechanical hard- drive options.

• The HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition comes in vibrant red with a peonyflower
inspired design that reflects the globally acclaimed fashion designer’s
Spring 2009 collection. It seeks to satisfy the highly mobile, Internet- centric
fashionista woman and features a 10.2-inch diagonal Brightview widescreen
Infinity display with1024 x 600 resolution.

Its design was first unveiled on the runway of Tam’s Fall 2009 Fashion Week
show in Battery Park in New York, although many on the scene mistook it for a
purse rather than the companion PC that it is. Tam labeled it the world’s first
“digital clutch,” and it ships with an embroidered sleeve to protect the exterior,
Accidental Damage Protection service and an HP SmartFriend Calling Card good
for 6 months of unlimited consultative service.

The Vivienne Tam Edition companion PC is powered by the Intel Atom N270
1.6GHz processor running Windows XP Home and has a 1GMm memory,
making the Web, critical files and PC applications easily portable. It includes an
Ethernet jack, 2 USB port, built-in webcam and microphone. It comes with
wireless connectivity (WLAN,) and 3G versions are expected to be available in
December.

Tam said, “The fashion-forward woman no longer has to sacrifice glamour when
staying in touch with all her favorite digital content. And the flower and vibrant
colors suggest good fortune, happiness and prosperity in the Chinese culture.”

• The HP Mini 1000 with MIE (Mobile Internet Experience) is the uniquely simple,
strikingly mobile Internet companion. It delivers a seamless Internet experience
out-of-the-box via an intuitive interface developed by HP that makes it easy to
enjoy digital content – videos, photos, music and email — on-demand and on the
go. MIE comes loaded with Instant Messaging, email and Skype, for online
video chat, making it easy to enjoy social-media experiences anywhere they are
connected.

The HP Mini 1000 with MIE is Linux-based and powered by an Intel Atom N270
1.6GHz processor. It includes an Ethernet jack, 2 USB ports, built-in webcam
and microphone. It comes with wireless connectivity (WLAN.)
Applications such as browsing, email, online video, are pre-loaded and run from
the MIE dashboard, minimizing startup time. Favorite websites that are added to
the dashboard stay live, and the task bar makes it easy to switch between
programs.

Mini Accessories and Service

The HP Mini Mobile Drive gives HP Mini 1000 customers 2, 4 or 8 gigabytes of
additional storage, making it simple to transport and retrieve important files, photos,
music and other data. It sits flush against the HP Mini, so that is doesn’t disrupt the sleek
design.

An optional 6-cell Li-polymer battery will be available in January.

The HP Mini 1000 and HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition come with a free six-month
subscription to HP Upline for up to three PCs. HP Upline is an easy-to-use, secure on-line
service for the storage, backup, sharing and synchronization of digital content.

Pricing and availability

• The HP Mini 1000 is available today in the U.S. from www.hpdirect.com with a
starting price of $399.99.

• The HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition is expected to be available in the U.S.
in mid-December via www.hpdirect.com. It – plus its designer sleeve and support
offerings – is expected to be priced at a starting price of $699.99 U.S.

• The HP Mini 1000 with MIE is expected to be available in the U.S. in January via
www.hpdirect.com and is expected to be at a starting price of $379.99.
Customers can reserve an HP Mini 1000 with MIE or HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam
Edition by calling 1-800-230-5752. For more information about the HP Mini 1000
portfolio please visit www.hp.com/xxxx

Lenovo Expands Ultra-Thin, Ultra-Light ThinkPad X300 Notebook PC Family
Delivers Next-Generation Processing, Greater SSD Storage and Enhanced
Multimedia Experience

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC – August 18, 2008 – Lenovo today announced the
ThinkPad X301 notebook PC, taking the thinnest and lightest full-function
notebook in its class1, to new heights in performance. Like its predecessor,
the industry-acclaimed ThinkPad X300 notebook, the ThinkPad X301 notebook
offers cutting-edge features and technologies in a thin and light form
starting at less than three pounds and one-inch thin. The notebook offers
even greater storage capacity with choices of either 64 GB or new 128 GB
solid state drive storage available in September. The ThinkPad X301 notebook
provides on average nearly 20 percent better performance over the ThinkPad
X300 notebook due to the latest DDR3 memory and the latest Intel(R) Core 2 Duo
ultra low volt processor2.

"Lenovo continues to push the technology envelope by giving road warriors
the latest enhancements in solid state drive storage and digital display
technologies with the new ThinkPad X301 notebook PC," said Sam Dusi, vice
president, worldwide notebook product marketing, Lenovo. "This announcement
extends our commitment to blending ultraportability and functionality, and
equipping today's business users with the most advanced, highest-performing
computing tools."

New support for DisplayPort makes viewing high definition content easy and
ideal for models with the ultra-thin DVD burner. With support for both
DisplayPort and VGA, users can even watch high definition content on
multiple displays. Designed for maximum options for wireless connectivity,
the ThinkPad X301 notebook offers models with high-speed mobile broadband3
and WiFi3 to connect wirelessly to the Internet, and also with Bluetooth and
Ultra-Wideband technology to connect wirelessly to other devices. Lenovo
offers improved uplink performance by up to 250 percent for models with AT&T
mobile broadband over previous ThinkPad notebooks with AT&T mobile
broadband4. Models supporting WiMAX will be available later this year.
Additionally, GPS on notebook models with high speed mobile broadband5 allow
travelers to more easily navigate to the office or airport.

The notebook also includes Lenovo's ThinkVantage Technologies, unique
hardware-software tools designed to maximize user productivity. With
Lenovo's improved Access Connections tool, users can navigate a
user-friendly interface to easily find and access Internet and network
connections. Also, Lenovo's improved Power Manager gives users more control
over notebook functions to enable longer battery life.

The ThinkPad X301 notebook also continues Lenovo's focus on
environmentally-responsible design. Its 13.3-inch LED backlit display, solid
state drive storage and other energy-efficient technologies help make it
rated Gold by the Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool. This
designation adds to Lenovo's portfolio of Gold-rated ThinkPad notebook and
ThinkCentre desktop PCs.

Pricing and Availability6
Pricing for models of the ThinkPad X301 notebook starts at approximately
$2,599. The notebook will be available on August 26 through Lenovo Business
Partners and www.lenovo.com.

The only concrete example in the article to warrant this concern is the aforementioned lack of profit margins, and there are still plenty of people who need more from their computers other than web browsing and micro-sized keyboards. But hey, if analysts are worried, should the rest of the world be? [NYT]

Windows Vista hasn't been adopted joyfully by the masses, but consumers don't always have a say when it comes to the next Windows OS they'll be using. Most of us have to run whatever comes preinstalled on our machine of choice. And according to Microsoft, starting June 30th of this year, that OS will be Windows Vista only.

There is an exception: A rag-tag group of small, cheap rebels that are exploding in popularity. Netbooks, mini-notebooks, ultraportables—whatever you want to call them—are bending the rules and reigniting Windows XP as a manufacturer-supported OS.

How Can They Get Away With It?
You see, Microsoft has a clause in their Vista-only mandate. Knowing—and now openly admitting—that the OS is far more taxing on a system than XP, Microsoft has agreed to allow makers of "ultralow-cost PCs" to continue selling XP computers until 2010. And while Microsoft will only offer major support for the platform through 2009, limited support will be available for XP until 2014. Essentially, it's a loophole that Microsoft created for an entire new class of computers like the Asus Eee PC.

Will This Really Matter?
The Asus Eee was a hit, already moving over 1 million units. And since then, countless other similar "ultralow-cost PCs" have been announced for the market by major manufacturers. Originally for the Eee PC (and others like OLPC's XO laptop) a Linux OS sufficed. But consumer demand for a more familiar operating system led to the adoption of XP. Now, most of these mini-notebooks offer an XP option right out of the gate, at an added cost.

Aside from the many small to medium manufacturers, the two biggest PC manufacturers, Dell and HP, have both jumped onto the mini laptop bandwagon. Here's where it gets interesting: HP's Mini Note does not support XP drivers natively, only Vista and Linux, and we don't know what OSs Dell will offer. But HP's system certainly qualifies for the exemption category because of its Via chipset, and Dell's very well might, too. If mini-notebooks continue to sell at the rate they're being produced, these big companies will definitely play a factor as to whether or not it's XP or Vista that's on them.

Still, the upstarts have the momentum. XP-loving Asus expects to sell 10 million Eees in 2009 when the mini-notebook market is anticipated to reach 20-30 million units sold, says Reuters. That's a lot of computers ready for XP.

So What's The Catch?
Microsoft was clever. After announcing its intent to support mini-notebooks, it clarified (read: limited) the specs on "ultralow-cost PCs." Requirements include nothing bigger than a 10-inch screen (not a problem), limits on processor speeds (variable by make/model), a cap at 1GB of RAM and a limit on storage. So far, the RAM and storage rules have both been broken by Asus already. And it's probably only a matter of time before Atom processors top their current (released) speeds of 1.6Ghz and create yet another exception to Microsoft's rulebook.

It will be interesting how XP popularity plays out from here—a game that's pretty much controlled by Microsoft at this point. But Microsoft is certainly allowing companies fudge the rules time and time again, probably because in the eyes of Ballmer and Gates, it sure beats some guy running Linux.

Additional Sources: [CNET, ZDNET Asia, Reuters]

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These versions include a white 8.9-inch version with an AMD CPU, ATI's RS690 chipset, 1GB RAM and the Linux operating system along with a 7-inch black XP version featuring a 1280 x 600 display (possibly touchscreen) a 60GB or 80GB hard drive, and 1GB of RAM. Details are still sketchy at the moment, but more should be revealed in the next few days. [AVING via jkkmobile]

Acer Presents the Aspire one

Your New Mobile Internet Device
TAIPEI, Taiwan & SAN JOSE, Calif. —(Business Wire)— Jun. 3, 2008 Acer, the third largest vendor in the global PC market (source: Gartner data, 4Q 2007), today presented the Aspire one, an all-new communication device designed to make online activities fast, simple and cool.

The Aspire one is a brand new product which, despite its size, is not just another notebook: it's a stylish all-new digital device designed to deliver continuous access to the internet no matter where you are.

The Aspire one is something that can go everywhere and opens the door to new and unexplored areas of the online world. For this reason it was important to reduce weight and dimensions.

The result is a masterpiece of technological simplicity with an intuitive and specifically optimized software interface to support connectivity needs. At just 9.8-inches x 6.7-inches x 1.14-inches and weighing a little more than two pounds, the Aspire one is not only extremely compact (smaller than an average office diary) but offers numerous connectivity possibilities, a full and easy-to-use software application suite and battery life of up to six hours(1).

Get connected

Small and smart, the Aspire one can go anywhere and keeps users connected everywhere. The Aspire one comes standard with 802.11b/g WiFi built-in for easy access to available wireless networks and in the future may be specified with 3G(2) wireless technology for even greater online freedom. In addition, Acer Signal Up technology ensures maximum quality and stability to the wireless signal.

Let's get organized

The Aspire one is great for getting things done: whether checking email, managing online accounts or chatting with friends, the Aspire one offers a simple, intuitive Linux(3) interface that clearly organizes everything needed to surf the Internet, work or simply have fun. The pre-installed software is separated by functions and presented in four distinct areas on the screen - Connect, Works, Fun and Files - making it so simple it's difficult to get confused.

Ergonomics and reduced dimensions do not mean the view isn't spectacular: the Aspire one has an 8.9-inch CrystalBrite LED backlit display with a resolution of 1024x600 pixels. Integrated in the top of the screen is the unique Acer CrystalEye webcam for live video streaming, video chats and conferences.

Choose your Style

The Aspire one uses color to combine connectivity with inimitable style. Initially available in blue and white, the range of colors available for the Aspire one will be expanded later this year with two new soft, warm tones: brown and pink.

The four colors - sapphire blue, seashell white, golden brown and coral pink - give the Aspire one an individual and quite distinctive look and feel that matches the style and personality of its owner.

Bits & bytes for data freedom

The Aspire one is equipped with Intel(R) Atom(TM) processor, Linpus(TM) Linux(R) Lite or Windows XP(R) Home, and comes with 512MB or 1GB of RAM memory installed.

There are two alternatives for data storage: a NAND flash module of 8GB or an 80GB(4) internal HDD. In addition the Aspire one reads five different types of memory card - Secure Digital, MultiMediaCard, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, xD-Picture Card - for absolute data freedom.

To increase storage capacity, the Aspire one features the unique Smart File Manager, a simple solution that instantly and seamlessly merges extra storage from any SD card inserted in the second SD card slot into the memory available to the user.

Simple, Sophisticated Software

Acer has improved the user experience by designing a friendly, easy-to-use and comprehensive interface utilizing a more natural approach to screen layout and functionality, which simplifies interaction between users and the Aspire one. The Linpus(TM) Linux(R) Lite version is the result, guiding and accompanying even novice users through the Internet in an intuitive, "virus-safe" and super-responsive Linux environment.

The Aspire one features the one Mail software suite that lets users manage up to six email accounts with a single application interface, including office accounts. A small icon to the right of the message quickly and clearly shows the appropriate mail account. Nothing could be simpler to replace push e-mail services without using a corporate server.

The Aspire one uses Messenger for Instant Messaging, an application that allows users to simultaneously access Skype, Microsoft Messenger and various other instant messaging services. The software can be used with the integrated video camera for instant video-chats and video conferences.

The Aspire one series comes preinstalled with Linpus(TM) Linux(R) Lite version or Windows XP(R) Home. Additional software such as OpenOffice 2.3, one Mail, Messenger, Acer eRecovery Management, Acer Launch Manager, Adobe(R) Reader(R), McAfee(R) Internet Security Suite, Microsoft(R) Office Trial 2007 are also installed5.

Pricing and Availability

The new Aspire one will be available in early Q3 through Acer authorized resellers and selected retailers throughout North America, with pricing beginning at US$379.

The Aspire one comes with a standard one-year parts and labor warranty, which includes concurrent International Traveler's Coverage that can be extended to three years with the Acer Advantage service that also covers accidental damage to the notebook. Additionally, all Acer notebooks are backed by toll-free service and support.

About Acer America

Since its founding in 1976, Acer has constantly pursued the goal of breaking the barriers between people and technology. Focused on marketing its brand-name IT products around the globe, Acer ranks as the world's No. 3 vendor for total PCs and No. 2 for notebooks, with the fastest growth among the top-five players. A profitable and sustainable Channel Business Model is instrumental to Acer's continued growth, while the successful mergers of Gateway and Packard Bell complete the company's global footprint by strengthening its presence in the U.S., and enhancing its strong position in Europe. Acer Inc. employs 5,000 people worldwide. Estimated revenue for 2007 is US $14.07 billion. For more information, please visit http://www.acer.com/us.

(1) Up to 3 hours battery life with standard 3-cell battery; up to 6 hours battery life with optional 6-cell battery

(2) Coverage depending on network availability. Upon launch the Aspire one will be WiFi enabled only. Embedded WiMax and 3G will be available later this year.

(3) only for the Linpus version

(4) (2.5-inch)

(5) System memory and/or bundled software depending on version or installed OS

The 2.6 lbs Wind features 5+ HR battery life, Windows XP, ergonomic keyboard, and 80G hard drive all for under $500

CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA – June 3rd, 2008 – MSI Computer, a leading manufacturer of computer hardware products and solutions, is excited to announce the official launch of the much anticipated Wind Notebook. The Wind, an acronym for “Wi-Fi Network Device,” is the first 10” notebook to feature the speedy new Intel Atom™ 1.6GHz processor

“Intel is excited to collaborate with MSI to usher in the next generation of mobile computing devices,” said Steve Dallman, Intel VP Sales and marketing Group and GM, Worldwide Reseller Channel Organization. “The Wind’s user–friendly design, combined with the low power and 45nm High-K process of the Intel Atom processor, makes for an exceptional netbook.”

Weighing in at just 2.6 lbs, MSI designed the Wind to be lightweight and ultra mobile, without sacrificing convenience or performance. The Wind features an ergonomically designed keyboard that is only 20% smaller than of a full sized keyboard, with keys spaced a comfortable 0.68 inches apart. Business travelers will welcome the extended battery life available with the Windows based version, which provides up to 5.5 hours of untethered work time.

The Windows version of the Wind features an 80G / 2.5” SATA hard drive, which further sets it apart from other ultra portable notebooks, whose manufacturers have compromised memory capacity to save space. The Wind’s display features embedded LED power-saving backlight technology, which provides superior color quality and brightness. This innovative notebook also comes standard with a 1.3M webcam, Bluetooth capabilities, 3 USB ports and a 4-in-1 card reader.

The Windows version of the Wind is priced at $499 MSRP, and will be available for purchase starting June 16th, 2008 at www.msimobile.com. The Linux based models of the Wind will be available at the same site later this summer for $399 MSRP.

CPU Intel Atom 1.6 GHz
Operating System Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition™
Chipset Intel 945GMS, ICH7-M
Display 10"W (1024×600) LED
VGA UMA
Memory 1GB DDR2/ 667MHz
Hard Drive 80G / 2.5” SATA
Battery 6 Cells / 5.5 hrs
WLAN 802.11b/g
Bluetooth Yes
Webcam 1.3m
Dimensions 10.23" x 7.08" x 0.748" ~1.24"
Weight 2.6lbs
Available Colors White, Black, and Pink
MSRP $499

Subnotebook: Judging by Google results (1,660,000) and the presence of a Wikipedia entry, "subnotebook" appears to be one of the most popular and closest-to-legit terms, with a history going back to at least Toshiba's Libretto, according to our friend Mark Spoonauer, editor-in-chief at Laptop. The real sticky point appears to be on the edges—when does a UMPC become a subnotebook, and when does a subnotebook become a real notebook? At 11 inches, Lenovo's IdeaPad U110 is probably the breaking point for subnotebook. In fact, that's our new rule: to classify as a subnotebook or ultraportable (see below), you've gotta be 11 inches or under, and less than 3 pounds. (Sorry Walt, the MacBook Air might be light, but its ginormous, full-notebook footprint means it ain't really a subnotebook in most people's eyes.) Judgment: Like a pair of loafers, "subnotebook" is unsexy, but it gets the job done.

Ultraportable: That's a really tricky term, probably the most amorphous. Spoonauer classifies small notebooks with fuller keyboards and displays like the IdeaPad U110 or HP's Mini-note 2133 as "ultraportables," leaving the "subnotebook" moniker to devices in the UMPC class, like the HTC Shift. However, added confusion comes from the fact that ultraportable sounds like ultramobile, as in UMPC (see below). Still, it's the most compelling alternative to subnotebook, because it sounds sexier, and has over 3 million Google hits alone and 1.27 million tagged to notebook or laptop. The big knock against "ultraportable" is that it redirects to "subnotebook" on Wikipedia. Judgment: I don't mind it, but without a firm identity it'll never be useful. Plus I feel like it's trying too hard.

Mini-Notebook: While "mini notebook" seems like a less popular and unwieldy derivative of "subnotebook," with fewer Google results (1,110,000) and no Wikipedia page (it doesn't even direct back to subnotebook), Spoonauer says that it's distinguished from subnotebook as being the class of small form-factor notebooks that are under $600, like the Eee PC. Judgment: I think this one should be junked, though determining a class on price is probably a good idea.

ULPC: This most generally stands for ultra low-cost PC, though I've seen ultra-light PC, too. (How about that for a red flag?) It isn't overly popular, but it obviously refers to small, cheap notebooks like the Eee or XO OLPC Laptop. While it might be useful in distinguishing the Eee from, say, the pricier U110, overall the term seems pointless, especially when there's already a better alternative. Judgment: Garbage heap.

Netbook: This is actually the brainchild of Intel's marketing department to describe sub-$500 notebooks centered around internet-connectivity, such as its Classmate PC. The original Eee PC, XO OLPC Laptop and Cloudbook would fall into this category. While it is technically flackspeak, I actually like it because it's short and fairly specific. Besides being endorsed by Intel (obvs), Ubuntu has officially picked up the term. Judgment: A keeper, even if it was coined by the Man.

UMPC: The term stands for ultra-mobile PC, and actually has fairly concrete origins in the Project Origami catastrophe headed up by Microsoft. Under Intel and Microsoft's guidelines, technically the form factor is defined as touchscreen mini-tablet smaller than eight inches with a resolution of at least 800 pixels wide. However, we (and most others) include the OQO in this category. Even though it doesn't have a touchscreen, it otherwise fits the slabby form factor to a T. Update: To be clear, the OQO has an active digitizer, not a touchscreen. It won't recognize your finger, you need a special stylus. Judgment: Works, we just have to disabuse people of using it in reference to stuff like the Eee.

Conclusion
Hopefully focusing on three terms that bear the least ambiguity will help with this confusion. Here's where you guys come in, since believe it or not, we do like standards. So while UMPC has dried to a firm, tasty shell, Netbook and subnotebook are still pretty jelly-like. Or maybe you'd prefer ultraportable to subnotebook? Should low-cost dwarfish notebooks be called netbooks, or is there a better term? Help us clean up this semantic cesspool.

This is one more step towards Negroponte's goal of getting technology into third world and developing countries. It also marks the first move into Colombia. And no, including a copy of "Dope Wars" on every Colombian OLPC would NOT be OK. Shame on you, reader, for suggesting that. [OLPC on Giz]

COLOMBIA SIGNS AGREEMENT TO PURCHASE 65,000 XO LAPTOPS

Cambridge, Mass., May 29, 2008 - One Laptop per Child (OLPC), a non-profit organization focused on providing educational tools to help children in developing countries "learn learning," announced today that the State of Caldas, Colombia, has signed a purchase agreement for 65,000 XO laptop computers to be distributed to children in one of the country's most important coffee-growing regions.

Upon signing the purchase order, Caldas's Governor Mario Aristizabal, said, "My government and our State legislators are fully committed to giving each and every child of primary school age the same opportunity to access knowledge as the most privileged children in New York, Berlin or Tokyo. The One Laptop per Child program is the right vehicle to reach that goal and its potential socio-economic impact cannot be under-emphasized."

"We are very pleased that Colombia has committed to working with us to in order to bring a modern education to their primary school children," said Nicholas Negroponte, founder and chairman of One Laptop per Child. "OLPC is now gaining good traction in signing up countries to undertake significant deployments."

The first wave of 15,000 units to be deployed later in 2008 will be in Caldas's smaller towns and rural areas. For the capital Manizales, a separate agreement is being discussed so that total coverage of the State is achieved. Governor Aristizabal is spearheading a local team that will provide support and implementation capabilities to ensure the long-term sustainability of the project. The remaining 50,000 units will be deployed in 2008 and 2009.

The price increase for the OLPC loaded with XP will be about $3 on top of the $200 price tag. Users who want a dual boot version to the OLPC will pay $7 extra. The XP operating system will come preloaded on an additional 2GB flash chip, offering 3GB of storage space total (1.5 usable after OS install).

After months of opposition by Bill Gates, talks of the joint venture began at CES 2008, where both men were attending. Widespread distribution of the machines is expected to happen in August or September. Check out the video demo below. [Microsoft and NY Times]

Developing and third-world countries will pay $26 per XP license, while developed nations will pay $32 per license. While this request does not seem to be a strict mandate, It looks like Microsoft is trying to curb the use of Linux, and prevent the smaller, cheaper computers from stealing market share from their bigger, Vista-equipped counterparts. I'm curious how this will affect those who choose not to participate, and make XP machines to their own specifications. [PC World via Electronista]