HiVision Linux notebook intros sub-$100 notebook
updated 05:00 pm EDT, Wed September 10, 2008
HiVision $97 notebook
An ultra-low cost PC was unveiled by HiVision at the IFA show by Chinese manufacturer HiVision, prompting comparisons to and fresh criticism of the OLPC notebook, as the former offers many of the same features at the latter's originally intended price. The Linux-based notebook, called the HiVision miniNote Linux Laptop, reportedly features a MIPS-based processor and 128MB or RAM along with built-in Wi-Fi and just 1GB of flash memory. The paltry amount of memory will be offset with an SDHC card reader and three USB ports. An Ethernet jack will also be standard fare, along with audio inputs and outputs.
On the software end, Skype will be preloaded, as will a chat program, while Firefox will be the web browser. Documents can be written in the AbiWord processor, and there is a media player, voice recorder and image editing applications. Automatic software updates will also be supported. The HiVision miniNote Linux Laptop will retail for $98 when it launches in October. The pink model, shown, has a $120 price tag and is currently available. [via The Earth Times]
