Everex unveils low cost PC

Everex`s gPC may stand a chance at pushing Linux mainstream, with a low price, widespread availability and Google-centric operating system, according to Digital Trends.

Taiwanese manufacturer Everex has produced a Linux-based desktop dubbed the gPC, which will sell for the price of $199, through Wal-Mart.

It runs a tweaked version of Ubuntu 7.10, dubbed gOS, to leverage free Web 2.0 applications from Google and other companies in place of costly commercial variants.

Technology companies from HP to Taiwan`s AsusTek are introducing desktops, laptops and other computer gear for children, according to Star Telegram.

Apart from Eee PC, HP is offering software from Knowledge Adventure and Easybits Software preconfigured on some desktops. Digital Dimensions has launched a $600 pink desktop for girls and race-car models for boys.

Kiddix Computing has launched a Linux-based operating system with parental controls, and that makes it easy for kids to access games and other activities, for $75. Educational toymaker LeapFrog Enterprises is releasing a $60 PC-like device called the ClickStart.

During the past 10 years, notebooks have increased from a 20% market share to almost 50%, and are expected to outsell desktop computers by the end of the decade, according to Intel developers at a forum in Taipei, in October, says TVNZ.

Mooly Eden, Intel VP and GM of the Mobility Platforms Group, believes the Internet is the main driver behind the growth in laptop computers.

"If you believe that one of the most persuasive things today is to be connected to the Internet, (then you`ll know) it`s unnatural for us to be tethered to a desktop," he said. The popularity of the mobile phone also proves that people want to stay in touch with the world while they`re on the move, he added.