Subsidized Aspire

A leaked Radio Shack holiday ad shows the Acer Aspire One priced at $100 when combined with a $60 or higher two-year AT&T data plan. The promotion represents a unique subsidization strategy for netbooks, drawing from a technique long-established in the mobile handset market. The Aspire One features an Intel Atom processor, Windows XP Home, 1GB memory, 160GB hard drive, 802.11b/g wireless and integrated 3G components for connection to cellular networks.

HP recently took a similar approach, bundling its Mini 1000 netbook with a 3G module and providing a choice between wireless broadband from AT&T or Verizon. Customers would pay the full price of the computer and receive a subsidy only on the module, however.

If the Radio Shack ad is genuine, the promotion will be offered from December 14th through the 20th. The Aspire One will cost $500 without the AT&T contract. [via Engadget]

By Electronista Staff