Verizon Wireless to Sell Subsidized Netbooks

It appears that Verizon Wireless and electronics giant HP are teaming up to offer subsidized prices for WWAN-enabled laptop computers to customers in the second quarter of 2009. WWAN (Wireless Wide Area Network) is a somewhat less elegant way to say wireless internet.



Few details are available but this information comes only about a month after rumors were rampant that Big Red would be offering a $200 subsidy with the purchase of a Sony VAIO-P. That rumor was quickly quashed by Verizon.

There isn't much in the way of confirmed information but the most likely candidate computer for this program seems to be the HP Mini 1000 Mi which retails for just $279.99, less than several high end smartphones. Speculation is focusing on a $99.99 price point with a 2-year BroadbandAccess plan. The base Mini comes with a 8.9-inch diagonal measure screen and weighs about 2.5 pounds. It comes with the Linux based HP Mobile Internet (hence Mi) operating system, an Intel 1.6GHz processor, 512MB or RAM and an 8GB flash memory module. All of those features, except the OS and processor, can be upgraded substantially so which model or models will become available on this promotion remains to be seen. And, of course, more than one version of the netbook could be made available under varying pricing options.

HP's Mini 1000 Mi series of computers come equipped with an integrated webcam which would make them ideal for someone who travels frequently and wants to stay in touch with loved ones by making video calls. Their light weight and diminutive size make the unit easy for anyone to carry with minimal effort.

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