Apple Talk: Upcoming Netbook or PDA?

In recent Mac news, Apple's new unibody laptop line has scored big points in Consumer Reports magazine. There are several news Web sites (1, 2, 3) that discuss what this may mean for the Mac laptops, especially when there are reports of potential upcoming price cuts for Apple products, and other reports of Apple's purported interest in a Netbook or Netbook-like device. The current laptops are definitely stylish and the exceptionally long battery life and multi-touch inputs are very practical for traveling users. The iPhone and iPod Touch already offer a "portable media device", so what's next?

Apple is always finding new and interesting ways of computing that differ from the rest of the PC industry, and perhaps these reports coupled with Apple's abhorrence of current Netbook devices point to an upcoming product that is cheap, Netbook-like, but uniquely "Apple."

CNET TV has a weekly program on all things Apple called the "Apple Byte," which discusses the good and the bad in terms of Apple products, news, rumors, and other detail. In the latest installment, CNET editor Brian Tong discusses information on Apple teaming up with Verizon, recent earnings reports, and most importantly, sits down with CNET editor Tom Krazit to discuss the rumors, timing, and options for an Apple PDA or Netbook-like product.

Check out the latest Apple Byte here: http://cnettv.cnet.com/timing-right-apple-netbook/9742-1_53-50070847.html

It seems a new portable from Apple is definitely in the works, and we are very eager to see what Apple has in store for us. What are your thoughts on an Apple PDA, Netbook, or media pad ("MacsiPad," as Mr. Tong so eloquently puts it)? Would you like to see Apple develop such a device?

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