Acer is preparing to launch an Aspire One netbook with integrated WiMax, or 802.16e wireless broadband. According to FCC documents, this netbook will be called the Acer Aspire One ZG5, and for the most part it looks like the classic Acer Aspire One with an 8.9 inch display. But the FCC docs were updated last to note the inclusion of a WiMax modem.
This is interesting, because netbook makers have largely been focusing on 10 inch models in 2009 rather than 8.9 inch versions. But I could see Acer fitting some of its lower cost Acer Aspire One models with WiMax modules and partnering with wireless broadband partners to subsidize and sell these laptops to customers who sign up for multi-year service plans.
via Netbook 3G
Ah, but of what use is it here, in the US? Right now there’s so little wimax available. I hope for the future, but I don’t know if’d I’d do so enough to buy what’s probably more expensive netbook than if I bought something with good ol’ b/g/n wifi.
A refresh of the 8.9″ range was promised by an Acer rep a while back – perhaps this is it?