If we exclude the Apple geeks from offering an opinion, most gadget nerds are pretty excited about the Zune HD. A big reason for this is its Nvidia Tegra processor, which allows for low energy consumption video playback among other things. In fact, the Tegra processor itself is much more impressive than the new Zune, which is why I was so excited to hear that Nvidia has Tegra-powered Chrome OS devices on the way.

In an interview with jkOnTheRun, Nvidia GM of Mobile Business Mike Rayfield stated that his company is working with Google to develop one or more Chrome OS devices. In the interview Rayfield "stressed" that Tegra was meant for more than just handheld devices. To me, that means we're looking at a Chrome/Tegra netbook, smartbook or (dare I say?) tablet in the near-ish future.

Computing has changed irrevocably in just the last two years. Desktop computers are no longer the best buy for a majority of users. Most people use their computers to surf the Internet, connect with friends, and play media. Only gamers need machines capable of handling much graphics processing, and gamers are hardly the bulk of the market.

The future of personal computing is in portable, always-connected machines with long battery lives. The Tegra processor is perfect for running small, energy efficient gadgets like that. Combined with the (presumed) simplicity and speed of Chrome, a Tegra netbook or smartbook would be just about perfect for a lot of people's needs.