Oh hello, the mail sent over an invite for Intel’s Neo Explore X1 launch this week. The Neo Explore is supposedly the aesthetically backward ASUS eee killer. Engadget reports that the Classmate has now hit shelves for P16,998 and has been rebranded by Neo into the Explore. Intel Philippines is spearheading the event.
The target market of the Neo is .. well … children. This is apparent from the look of the media invite which encourages you to bring your kids to “explore” and “discover.” Why wasn’t this the thrust of the ASUS eee?
The ASUS eee doesn’t seem to target children. It is being pushed towards the on-the-go mobile warrior and early adaptors. I think the perception shift is because it runs on Linux, therefore is “alien” to children who are used to seeing Windows boot up. How different the perception of the market when you aren’t running on Windows? I dunno. I’m obviously guessing these reasons, but you must admit there is some commercial attrition with Linux.
So the truth? Well, let’s wait and see what they have to present during the conference. Should be interesting.
8 replies on “Is the Neo Explore X1 Classmate PC “better” than the ASUS eee?”
Natural timing as this would be a good thing to keep kids occupied this summer.
Imagine that, kids using Linux! 😀
if i’m not mistaken, the official site for the eee has a picture of two kids using it.
asus killed them all pretenders with their eee…it’s a simple fact all the rest are catching up…but if indeed asus is threatened by all these, then why are the shelves of eeepc’s empty up to now?
Hi, Jayvee: saw the Classmate PC at the local Electroworld dealer here in Davao and was a bit disappointed. My review with pictures here: http://villageidiotsavant.blogspot.com/2008/03/classmate-pc-aka-neo-explore-x1.html
Well one thing’s The EEE looks a hell of a lot better than the classmate. At least you can PRETEND the EEE wasn’t made for children and the aged. 😛
Finally, a laptop that I can use while riding an FX even in unholy hours of the day.
I don’t mind if its designed similar to my kid’s Vtech,
it will make muggers wonder whether I am working? or just starting to learn my ABC..
I never heard any new now and i wonder why?
I just saw a Neo Xplore x1 in Compex in Megamall going for P9,000.00. I wonder if it really is worth it.