Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve had quite a number people ask me to define what a netbook is. To begin with I was surprised by this question given the growing popularity of the term, but I now realize I shouldn’t have been because it has come to mean different things to different people thanks to all the various definitions that are being promoted out there.

For the record, our definition of a netbook is a light and affordable, mobile computing device that runs Windows XP, weighs less than 3lbs (1.5kg), and has one spindle for the HDD. Unlike other vendors, we don’t have any restrictions on the processor or GPU that should go in a netbook, nor do we limit the screen size (though we think that 12” will become the sweet spot next year).

I hope that clears up any confusion, at least from our side.