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Last updated: Wednesday, March 11, 2009

How many rumors does it take to equal a fact? Or put another way, at what point does a flood of rumors start to look like a marketing campaign? As Apple netbook rumors swirl through the media for a third straight day, the slow but steady trickle of information has a deliberate quality that suggests planning. The latest news out of Taiwan is from Reuters, which says it has confirmed an Apple order for 10-inch (diagonal) touchscreens, a size typically used for netbooks. The news agency cited an unnamed source in Taiwan, but added that the individual didn’t know the type of device for which the screens are intended or who might manufacture it. Other reports have suggested Quanta Computer would make the as-yet-unannounced product. Apple has repeatedly declined to comment on the rumors, saying the company doesn’t address speculation. Shrinking Markets Apple has repeatedly said it would not have a netbook because it can’t produce a quality machine that would meet the typical price point of around $500. However, the growing popularity of netbooks and declines in PC sales may be forcing the company to reconsider. According to the industry research firm Gartner, sales of personal computers will contract 12 percent this year. By contrast, netbook sales are estimated to nearly double, from 11.7 million units to 21 million by year’s end. While that still pales in comparison to overall PC sales, it signifies growing interest in the mini-computers. But the question isn’t whether Apple can design a $500 netbook. The real question is whether the company can create a device that is so compelling and with such perceived value that a significant number of people want it regardless of price (admittedly a dicey business plan in the current economy). That’s the challenge for Apple. Not a Fan of Niche Products Interpret Vice President Michael Gartenberg agrees….

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Apple Netbook Rumors Now Include 10-Inch Screen

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