January 6, 2009 4:30 PM PST

Netbook plus touch screen equals Eee PC T91

by Dan Ackerman
  • Font size
  • Print
  • Post a comment
(Credit: Asus)

What could be better than a small, low-cost, easy to use Netbook laptop? How about a small, low-cost, easy to use Netbook laptop with a swiveling touch screen? Conceptually similar to the recently updated Intel Classmate PC, the new Eee PC T91 has a rotating display that can be spun 180 degrees and folded down, akin to what you'd see in something like the Lenovo X60.

Even though the system still has only an standard 9-inch display, Asus managed to stuff in a GPS antenna, a TV Tuner, and an FM Transmitter, making it a bit of an overachiever for the Netbook market.

Inside, it's still a standard configuration of the Intel Atom CPU and Windows XP. Price and availability details should be forthcoming, but Asus does say the T91 will be available in a variety of colors.

New York native Dan Ackerman, a former radio DJ turned journalist, has written about technology and music for publications including Spin, Blender, The Hollywood Reporter, and USA Today. He hosts the weekly Digital City podcast and the New York edition of Editors' Office Hours. Dan's new album, Tales Out of Night School, is available now. E-mail Dan.
Recent posts from CES 2009
2010 Best of CES Awards - call for entries
3D is coming to a living room near you
Haier launches new line of Rhapsody Ibiza players
Alpine KTP-445 Power Pack adds easy amplification
CES 2009: Computers and hardware wrap-up
CES 2009: Home audio wrap-up
CES post-show wrap-up: HDTV
CES 2009 home video wrap-up
by Devhux January 6, 2009 4:50 PM PST
I thought Microsoft wasn't allowing XP on touch-screen enabled computers anymore.... wonder how ASUS got around that restriction.
Reply to this comment
by daniel142005 January 7, 2009 12:10 AM PST
Well considering Netbooks aren't powerful enough to run Vista, Microsoft had to either say yes to XP or risk loosing more market share to linux. I think I read somewhere a while back that they were going to allow XP on Netbooks still though anyway for various reasons.
by joosepR January 10, 2009 3:31 PM PST
daniel is right, no other choice.. too juicy to wait.
by Remo_Williams January 7, 2009 5:24 AM PST
If you skipped the mouse pad area and stuffed that with a SATA slot/sled and a larger battery, you'd have a killer portable. Touch screen means no mouse pad required.
Reply to this comment
by czmyt January 7, 2009 6:14 AM PST
That is a nice machine. I love the touch screen and swivel screen. I can't wait to try one out. I assume that there is a GPS receiver in there too and not just an antenna? I hope it's a digital TV tuner! What is the FM transmitter for? I'd like details about storage options, battery size and pricing.
Reply to this comment
by adelacuesta February 11, 2009 9:05 AM PST
What do they really meant with 'GPS Antenna' built in? If it is only the antenna part, it is just like having a mouse without the PC. I hope what they mean is with the 'GPS antenna' is the GPS itself with out the navigation SW. Then this is really a good set of mobility features.
by Scott Gardener January 7, 2009 6:42 AM PST
OK, maybe this time, a touch screen tablet will take off. I've been waiting, but no one has offered any takers. Maybe the success of the iPhone and the iPod touch will get people interested in trying ths. I'm hoping touch screens take off, because I'd love to have that iBrick book thingy with two touch screens that has circulated around the rumor mills.
Reply to this comment
by ladygatorforever February 5, 2009 8:53 PM PST
HOW MUCH!!!!????? i almost bought an Eee PC tonight at best buy for $279 w/xp which i thought was a great deal...but now i want to wait. so how much is this one?
Reply to this comment
by chaase February 12, 2009 9:00 AM PST
When can I buy this? Is anyone taking pre-orders? I saw it at CES and must have one!
Reply to this comment
by iff2mastamatt March 3, 2009 7:06 PM PST
I've heard rumors it could be around $600 for the base price (probably without the TV tuner)
Reply to this comment
advertisement

About CES 2009

Add this feed to your online news reader

CES 2009 topics

CES 2009 Awards


Best of CES and
People's Voice Award

Since 2006, CNET has presented the Best of CES Awards, given to the top product in 10 categories as well as one coveted Best in Show award. See the gadgets that topped our list for this year, and find out the People's Voice winner, decided by more than 10,000 member votes.

Now accepting submissions for the 2010 Best of CES Awards.


About CES

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is the world's largest consumer electronics trade show. CES 2009 is scheduled for January 8 through 11 in Las Vegas, and it will feature thousands of exhibitors showcasing their latest tech products. CNET's team of reporters and reviewers will be at the show, covering technology's heavy hitters and previewing thousands of products before they are released to the public.

Each year, CNET, in partnership with the Consumer Electronics Association, produces the Best of CES awards at the International Consumer Electronics Show. The CNET editorial team recognizes the best new products at the show with awards in 10 categories, an overall Best of Show award, and the People's Voice award, which is selected by CNET's online audience.