MWC: Acer Launches Ion 2 High Definition Netbook

Acer is looking to cater to those users seeking a gaming netbook capable of high definition playback, after launching the Aspire One 532G at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

The 532G, introduced 15 February, is the first netbook to feature Nvidia Ion graphics for high-definition playback at 720p on the LED backlit 10.1-inch display, and 1080p on a larger screen, through the HDMI port.

Acer officials say the netbook intelligently transitions between the 512MB of dedicated Nvidia Ion graphics and Nvidia’s Optimus technology to optimise power use and offer up to 10 hours of battery life. Also contributing to its efficiency is an Intel Atom N450 platform, for a package that Acer says can support Internet browsing, email and document editing, as well as PC gaming and 3D computing.

The 532G is an inch thin, weighs 2.2 pounds and includes Wi-Fi connectivity and optional 3G. It comes with interchangeable converters for charging anywhere in the world, and the charger is said to weigh less than typical chargers and charge in one-third the time.

Acer hasn’t yet offered details about the operating system, or the price, although it is mercury free, Energy Star v5.0 qualified and RoHS and WEEE EU compliant.

Arriving toward the end of the first quarter of 2010, the Aspire One 532 G will come in sapphire blue, ruby red and pearl silver.

According to DisplaySearch, 2009 was a strong year for netbooks, with approximately 33.3 million units shipping during the year and 2009 sales totals growing 103 percent over 2008 totals.

In 2010, sales of these generally sub-$400 (£256) PCs are expected to continue to climb, though at a slower rate. By year’s end, DisplaySearch expects netbook shipments to reach 39.7 million units.