Home > Technobuddy > Archives > 2007 > July > 31 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFinding the middle ground
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I think there’s an untapped market for a device that splits the difference between a tiny handheld and a regular-sized laptop computer. I’ll link to an article here that spells out the advantages.
There are people - I’m one of them - who want a decent-sized screen, the ability to type rather than stab at a screen or keyboard with a thumb or fingertips, and enough computing power to do real work on occasion.
I hate the weight of a laptop when travelling but a palm-sized device, or an iPhone for that matter, just don’t fit with how I want to work. I’m not saying that I’m typical but I am saying that I’m not alone.
Too many laptops are designed to compete with desktop machines when it comes to processor power, storage and utility. I would be glad to trade all that power for something small enough to carry without spraining my shoulder. Too many palm-sized devices have tiny screens and - while great for checking e-mail - are awkward if you need to write more than three sentences.
I agree with the article I’ve linked that current attempts to create devices for this middle market are failures. But I also agree that doesn’t have to be so.
Permalink | Comments (5) | Post your comment | Categories: General
Comments
By Prootwadl
July 31, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
I’m going to be picking up a pair of Nokia 770’s for my wife and myself fairly soon. At $130 apiece, it’s a hard deal to ignore. The Opera web browser those devices come with is a very nice browser, and it sounds like the newer OS releases come with a real package manager, making it a lot easier to install ported third-party software.
For web browsing while watching TV or out at a restaurant, I think they’ll be great. :-)
By Tom
July 31, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this
Bill, Take a look at the OQO — www.OQO.com. T
By Bill
August 1, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this
Tom that does look like something I’d like to try. Although it may be a while. My wife keeps insisting that my savings plan (putting quarters in an old popcorn can) will not be sufficient for our retirement.
By Tom
August 1, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this
Bill, oh come on. We know you tech writers get freebies. GRIN!
It reminds me of the old Model 100 from Radio Shack!
T
By Bill
August 1, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this
Hey Tom, you’re right - we do get demo stuff. Just today I got a (I promise this is true) a Barbie MP3 player to test. I had always wanted one but had never hoped that the moment would actually come.