Pegatron are to release a smartbook before the end of 2009. The smartbook will feature an 8.9 inch display, but opts for an ARM processor instead of the traditional Intel Atom netbook processor. While the ARM processor may not be as powerful as Intel processors, the CPU will actually use less power. Standard specs of the smartbook includes a 2 cell battery, which seems pretty disappointing, but it’s said to last for about 8 hours due to the ARM 800MHz processor.

As the ARM processor isn’t supported by Windows XP, Vista or 7, the smartbook will most probably run Linux, but it could also possibly come with Google Android or Windows CE. When the smartbook is released, it should retail for around $120.

IT Pro Portal have previewed the smartbook and compared it for size up against the Asus Eee PC 1005HA.

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Some China-based whitebox netbook makers are reportedly planning to release a toned-down versions of the Atom-based netbooks and are expected to be released in January or February 2009.

Said ARM-based netbooks will come in a 7-inch and 10-inch netbooks and would have the Windows CE for their operating systems. Both these ARM-based netbooks will be capable of fulfilling various office tasks such as email and Internet browsing but won’t be powerful enough for 3D gaming as well as supporting Windows XP or Vista.

The 7-inch ARM-based netbooks would be utilizing the 300MHz ARM9 Core Processor, which may not be as Powerful as the Atom or NVIDIA processors but certainly has longer battery life.

The 7-inch netbook will be sold for around $146 when it comes out next year.

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