12 Inch is still a Netbook, Right?

Apparently, Asus have indicated that they intend to create a 12 inch netbook in the near future. It is destined to be an ‘ultra thin model’ according to Digitimes but, the question is – when does a netbook become too big to be classed as a ‘netbook’?

Asus created the netbook and once upon a time the netbook was a 7inch, highly portable unit that wasn’t truly a notebook and the netbook tag fitted the product perfectly. Now, netbooks have bulked themselves out and we see 10.2″ models, for example the ‘top of the range’ S101 Eee PC from Asus themselves. 10.2″ is ok, we’re used to that but, 12 inch…..that’s a notebook isn’t it?  Well, yes, that’s what Asustek have decided, their new 12″ model will not be tagged as a netbook – Asus are adding to the notebook range in their collection of ‘books’ and the notebook tag fits this model a little better, it’s all very well clinging on to the netbook tag, netbooks are incredibly and increasingly popular so it’s understandable why any company would tag their products as a netbook if they can get away with it but, Asus seem happy to move their bigger model into the ‘notebook’ range, although the tie-in to the Eee PC range should keep that netbook tag working for the company regardless of the size of screen.

The 12″ netbook, will be a part of the ZX series and will be of similar specification to the S101. With specs like that and the inclusion of a larger screen with 16:10 aspect ratio, Asustek could be onto a winner, again. Digitimes’ sources have predicted the unit will cost below NT$30,000.

To clarify where the netbook line stopped and the notebook line started, Asus president Jerry Shen stated: “that any device with display larger than 10.x-inches is not a netbook. Related devices with 11-inch or larger displays will be part of the company’s Asus brand”. So thats clear then, 12″ is a notebook, the man said so.