Asus launches 2 new Eee netbooks

Asus expanded its faith on netbook popularity by announcing two new netbooks with specialized features to cater to niche pockets of netbook shoppers.

The company’s two newest devices are designed for younger users and regular consumers, with the company trying to refresh its Eee PC.

The Asus Eee PC 1001PQ netbook includes a 10.1-inch screen, Intel Atom N450 (1.66GHz) processor, 1024 x 600 resolution, 160GB HDD, 1GB RAM (2GB upgrade available), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and weighs 2.4lbs with a three-cell battery (six-cell battery also available).  The 1001PQ can be found in flame purple and vibrant gold, with stickers so it can easily be changed by owners.

Most companies currently offer products aimed for teenagers and adults, but very few products have been launched for pre-adolescent users.  I don’t know how popular this product will be with tweens and other young users, but it’s good to see a company at least try to cater to younger tech users.

Asus also announced the Eee PC 1015PD netbook ships using a 10.1-inch screen powered by the Intel Atom N455 (1.66GHz) or Atom N475 (1.83GHz) CPUs, 1GB RAM (with 2GB upgrade option), 160GB, 250GB, or 320GB HDD storage capacity.

This netbook is designed more for consumers looking for a serious work machine good for students and adults.

Both models will be available using Microsoft Windows 7 Starter.  Pricing information and release dates for both netbooks weren’t announced, but should be expected soon.

Tablets are expected to chop away at the growth of netbooks by 2012, but Asus continue to show faith with its Eee PC line.  Since launch in 2007, Eee PC products have sold well and continues to fend off competitors looking to cut into the netbook market.