BenQ recently announced the release of its latest netbook PC, the Joybook Lite U102. The PC is powered by Intel’s 1.6GHz Atom CPU, 1GB of RAM and sports a 10.1-inch, 1024x600 resolution LED-backlit screen as well as built in Wi-Fi, all of which are par for netbooks. Where the U102 breaks from the norm is with its 250GB hard drive and optional 3G access. There is a dedicated shortcut key for switching between the two types of wireless networks.

The Joybook U102 is less than one inch thick and weighs just over 2.3lbs with the standard 3-cell battery, which BenQ rates for three hours of life. An optional six-cell battery roughly doubles battery life. It also has an integrated 1.3-megapixel webcam, but Bluetooth 2.1 is optional. Windows XP Home is preloaded onto the netbook's hard drive.

The Joybook Lite U102 is so far available in Taiwan, China, and Thailand, with no word on pricing or any intentions to bring it to the North American market.