Sony Vaio P

Some of you may not know about a new category of devices that is taking the world by storm. Formerly called the netbook – I say formally because Psion (remember them) has issued cease and desist letters on the term because of a product called netBook introduced years ago – this class of device is basically a light and small laptop that is mainly for internet applications. They tend to run Windows XP or custom Linux configurations. And they cost roughly $500, sometimes more and often less. This device class has sold roughly 5 million units to date and is where much of the growth in the PC market has been sourced. It started with a $200 Eee PC and has mushroomed since then. 

The great thing about these devices is their size and weight – 2/3rd to half the size of normal laptops and often under 2 lbs. For the road warrior, these two things are a Godsend. At least in theory. In practice, these devices can be frustrating due to their tiny keyboards and small screens. It's difficult to work on them for more than a few hours. But as a temporary laptop/desktop replacement, they are great. I've been tempted to pick one up; my MacBook is one of the older ones and is heavy, weighing in at 5.5 lbs.

Originally the domain of less-than-mainstream manufacturers – Asus and Acer being the market leaders – the biggies have noticed the action and are jumping in. Dell and HP have successfully blurred the line between laptop and netbook by offering more laptop-ish screens and wider keyboards. 

The device above is Sony's new Vaio P. It's gorgeous and I bet it will be quite successful. Although it runs Windows Vista, they have added a front-end application to ease navigation. They have 'solved' two problems – the screen has typical Sony clarity and resolution, decreasing eye strain. The keyboard is almost full-size, meaning one can work on it for a decent length of time without finger cramps. The battery life is impressive, roughly 4 hours. But it's pricey for netbook, starting at $900. 

I will keep an eye on it. 

I love the new MacBooks and will likely get one in a few months as my current one is getting long in the tooth. BUT I really want something like this because it travels better.