According to IDC ultra low cost notebooks have received considerable attention as a possible solution to the so called digital divide in developing countries. Despite that fact IDC says that these sub-$500 clamshell mobile PCs with screens of 7-10 inches will find success as secondary computing devices in established regions and educational markets.

"Consumers have embraced the idea of the PC, particularly the portable PC, as a personal device rather than a shared household device," said Bob O'Donnell, vice president, Clients and Displays at IDC. "This has led to the introduction of notebooks in an increasingly wide range of sizes and shapes, as well as more specialized PCs. Very low-cost, compact notebooks than can be carried around and provide quick and easy access to the Internet via Wi-Fi hot spots fills an important spot in this burgeoning market - the first disposable notebooks."

IDC says that it forecasts worldwide shipments of ultra low cost notebook PCs to grow from under 500,000 in 2007 to over 9 million in 2012. With the lower selling price of the systems it also says revenues are expected to be under $3 billion in 2012. The class of notebooks is expected to remain under 5% as well.

Via IDC