Asustek Computer this week officially unveiled its new netbook under Eee PC brand that targets end-users demanding style, but who will be satisfied with low-performance and limited set of features. Originally planned to be part of the Eee PC family, the S101 was once considered to be a part of Asus-branded laptops lineup, but the company still decided to intro the device as an Eee PC.

The new Asus Eee PC S101 is based on Intel Atom N270 (1.60GHz) as well as Intel 945 GSE core-logic with built-in integrated graphics core. The system is equipped with 1GB DDR2 memory, 16GB/32GB/64GB solid-state drive, 802.11n WLAN controller, 10/100Mb/s Ethernet controller, Bluetooth 2.0 module, 0.3 megapixel camera, card reader, high-definition audio and so on. The netbook may feature either Microsoft Windows XP Home or Linux operating system. The system weighs about 1 kilogram.

“With its elegant styling and slender profile, the Eee PC S101 cuts a striking profile that complements any sartorial ensemble,” a statement by Asustek says. The S101 systems will be available in brown, champagne or graphite colours.

Asustek’s decision not to introduce a relatively expensive netbook under its own brand means that the company does not intend to enter lower-performance computers into Asus family. This may be considered as a surprise since Asustek Computer has been trying hard to popularize its notebooks especially in the USA.

Asus Eee PC S101 with 32GB solid state drive will be sold for $699, whereas the model with 64GB SSD has estimated street price of $899.

Tags: ASUS, Eee