A Short Life for the Netbook?

My prognostication is "no". The netbook is a far better configuration for the next generation mobile computer compared to an iPAD-like device. Netbooks have already gained needed speed and power, but I think the future holds many surprises for the netbook class. Look for more speed, more solid state memory, OLED displays, etc.

If you want to read "books" on a mobile device, stick to the e-ink devices (in addition to a netbook).

There is a reason why tablet PC flop, simple fact is they are im practile to use IE you read the screen at a different angle to angle you type/edit stuff.. hence the ergonomics is totally wrong and for $300 why wouldn't you buy netbook ...