May 27, 2009
Prepare for Managed Netbook Services
MSPmentor
Joe Panettieri writes about the netbook market and the role that service providers play.
“If small business owners and executives begin to embrace netbooks from service providers, it could set the stage for major service providers to offer steeply discounted higher-end laptops with broadband deals. And yes, I do expect more managed services to be bundled with the offers. In particular, keep a close eye on Dropbox, a file storage, sharing and sync service that already comes bundled with many netbooks.”
The New New Economy: More Startups, Fewer Giants, Infinite Opportunity
Wired
Chris Anderson writes about the impact cloud computing has on younger firms.
“The rise of cloud computing means that young firms no longer have to buy their own IT equipment, which helps them avoid having to raise money or take on debt. Likewise, the webification of the supply chain in many industries, from electronics to apparel, means that even the tiniest companies can now order globally, just like the giants. In the same way a musician with just a laptop and some gumption can accomplish most of what a record label does, an ambitious engineer can invent and produce a gadget with little more than that same laptop.”
Microsoft announces Zune HD
Register Hardware
James Sherwood writes about Microsoft’s new Zune HD device.
“Built around a 480 x 272, 3.3in OLED screen with 16:9 aspect ratio, Zune HD features an integrated ‘HD Radio receiver’ that supposedly enables you to listen to higher quality sound than traditional portable radio devices offer. Microsoft has equipped the Zune HD with Wi-Fi compatibility, so you’ll be able to use the player’s multi-touch screen to navigate your way around the Internet.”