June 17, 2009
Gartner: Windows 7 upgrade catch for XP converts
The Register
Gavin Clarke writes why Michael Silver, an analyst at Gartner thinks transitioning from Windows XP to Windows 7 will be a challenge for end-users.
“(Michael Silver) said Microsoft is making it harder and more expensive for those who move from Windows XP to Windows 7. ‘Microsoft will probably get more money out of [this policy].’”
Netbooks Mutate to Meet Market Challenges
Wired
Brian X. Chen writes that while the term “netbook” may eventually change its name to better reflect its increased feature-sets and capabilities, the products themselves won’t be going away any time soon.
“Despite their shipments slowing down in the first quarter of 2009, inexpensive and low-powered netbooks are poised for rapid growth as their feature sets continue to mature. Research company International Data Corporation forecasts that the netbook market will more than double by the end of 2009.”
Disney, Asus launch ‘Netpal’ netbook for kids
ZD Net
Andrew Nusca writes about a new netbook for children, ages six to 12, as a result of a collaboration between Disney and Asus, called the Disney Netpal.
“Developed with parents and kids in mind, the Disney Netpal has a reinforced mechanical design and, naturally, a Disney user interface. In addition to ‘more than 40 robust parental control options,’ the Netpal sports an 8.9-inch LCD display, Wi-Fi, Windows XP Home and kid-friendly software featuring Disney characters. The Disney Netpal will be available in late July in two models.”
