HP plans low-cost Mini-Note

We're were suitably impressed by the build quality and keyboard on HP's high-end Mini-Note 2133 when it landed here in May - but less taken with its underpowered VIA C7-M processor.

That could be about to change on both counts. speaking Down Under at an HP business mobility event, Jerel Chong, HP Australia’s Market Development Manager for Notebook PCs, told reporters that a second 2133 style laptop was in the pipeline, "but at a lower cost," adding, "it won’t be as durable but it will be cheaper."

That would point to the next HP Mini Note losing its anodised aluminium chassis and distinguishing features such as its spill-resistant keyboard and a shock-proof hard drive.

Such a move could well see the Mini Note's starting price come down to Eee and Wind levels, albeit with a plastic case and fewer business friendly touches.

Not that HP is abandoning the high-end altogether. The 2133 is ripe for an upgrade to an Intel Atom processor, which wasn't an option when it was first released. Our guess would be for the new cheaper model to arrive alongside a refreshed 2133 with both sporting Atoms inside.

[ APC Mag]