X-bit labs

Acer to Introduce Rival for Asustek's Eee PC.

Category: Mobile

by Anton Shilov

[ 03/24/2008 | 08:59 AM ]

Acer, a leading maker of personal computers, plans to roll out a low-cost system that will be even more affordable than Asustek Computer's Eee PC., market rumours say. There is almost no information about Acer's entry-level personal computer (PC), but the device is projected to become available in May, 2008.

A news-story at DigiTimes web-site claims that Acer plans to sell the low-cost PC with 8.9" screen for $250 - $300, which is lower compared to Asus Eee PC with 8.9" screen. End-users should be able to get Acer's affordable computer for about $350 - $400, it is reported. It is unclear which microprocessor and core-logic will be used by one of the world's largest makers of PCs to power the entry-level system, however, a natural guess will be Intel Atom, which is gaining popularity among system makers.

Asustek demonstrated its Asus Eee PC with 8.9" screen at CeBIT 2008 in Hannover, Germany, whereas Acer yet has to reveal details about its device in the coming months.

Low-cost computers are projected to take a significant market share in 2008 due to present economic conditions in the U.S. and some other countries. Many PC manufacturers see entry-level systems as a way to boost their revenues and enter new markets, however, there are also companies who do not believe in affordable computers. For example, Sony Corp. sees competition between Asus Eee PC and its future competitors as a "race to bottom", where is no place for innovation.

Acer did not comment on the news-story.