Dow Jones sources point to Apple Netbook

by Stevie Smith - Mar 10 2009, 16:30

Having already rustled up some media interest in the last few days, rumours suggesting gadget titan Apple Inc. is preparing to enter the burgeoning Netbook arena have today gathered a little more pace.

According to the technology watchers at Apple Insider, two unnamed sources have approached Dow Jones with confirmation of Apple’s planned arrival in the Netbook market via a diminutive touch-screen platform.

The ultra-portable computer is expected to ship to retail in the second half of 2009, claim the “two people close to the situation,” with proffered display proportions believed to be around 10-inches, which would place the device firmly within the Netbook category.

Beyond its physical classification, one of the two anonymous sources said that internal specifications and functions remain “under evaluation,” which could see Apple reversing its prior negativity regarding underpowered Netbooks by producing one with improved performance and consumer appeal.

This latest burst of speculation arrives hot on the heels of a Chinese-language report published in the Commercial Times, which indicated Taiwan-based panel maker Wintek is to begin supplying Apple with displays before the close of the year, while the world’s biggest notebook manufacturer Quanta Computer is to be tasked with overall production line duties.

While far from concrete proof of any such creative agreements between the three parties, the Dow Jones sources similarly report that both Wintek and Quanta Computer are closely connected to Apple’s upcoming portable system. 

Naturally, Cupertino-based Apple Inc. has offered nothing by way of confirmation or denial.

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