Cheaper Apple Mini-Laptop Overdue

All I can say is, it's about time!

Rumors are flying that Apple(AAPL Quote) next week will announce a new slate of notebook computers, including one that sells for $800. I want to know what they've been waiting for.

Apple keeps a tight rein over its software and hardware, and that policy has served it well. But there has been a slew of inexpensive, small laptops that run on Microsoft(MSFT Quote) Windows that are becoming all the rage.

Companies like Asus, Dell(DELL Quote), H-P(HPQ Quote), Lenovo, Intel(INTC Quote), MSI and others are blazing the way with feature-loaded mini-laptop computers selling for less than $500. In some configurations, hundreds less than $500.

Dell Mini-Laptop: Big Trouble for Eee?

So, it's no surprise that blogs are reporting that a leaked price list is telling retailers that their Oct. 14 announcement will include a refreshed line of portable computers -- with a price range of $800 up to $3,100. Currently, the cheapest Apple laptop sells for $1,100.

But it's the low-priced portables that will grab all the attention of shoppers these days, with good reason. First of all: the economy. No explanation needed there.

Second, all those companies I listed above are selling their minis as fast as they can make them. They're big with schoolkids and adults who appreciate the portability. Most run on stable, easy-to-master operating systems like Windows XP and Linux.

The little computers are capable of doing most everything that a bigger laptop can do. Not everything, but enough to make them appealing to shoppers. For instance, I'm writing this on a terrific Asus Eee PC. It does everything I need when I'm on the go. Currently, there is nothing from Apple that compares -- sizewise, featurewise or pricewise.