LG Electronics has introduced its entry-level X140 netbook powered by the Intel Atom mobile computing platform alongside high-definition playback support.
The X140 has a 10.1-inch screen, Intel Atom N475 (1.83 GHz) CPU, 2GB RAM, 320GB HDD, Microsoft Windows 7 Starter, 1.3-megapixel camera, and 720p screen resolution. The netbook also includes Ethernet, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
LG included 3G radio so it's possible to sync the netbook with a smartphone -- and owners can make phone calls and send text messages from the netbook using the 3G radio connection.
The X140 weighs 2.9lbs with the six-cell battery, or 3.2lbs with a nine-cell battery. The six-cell battery provides up to nine hours of playback.
Pricing is expected to be somewhere around $475-$500 when released in North America, though LG will likely announce pricing when the device is released in new markets.
A North America launch date hasn't been revealed, but the X140 is expected for the Middle East and Asia -- with the device to be available in the United Arab Emirates -- before global launches.
LG is a major electronics maker, and this is an effort for the company to focus more on netbooks and portable electronics. The company has a wide variety of smartphones and the unique 3G radio feature will give owners a reason to sync their netbook with their smartphones.
Some consumers believe anything above $425 is too much for a netbook, but I believe it'll be possible for LG to do well with a $500 netbook. The Atom N475 CPU, HD playback and 320GB HDD justify bumping the price higher, but LG may have to be flexible with pricing depending on the competition.