Asus to launch ARM smartbook in 2010

Asus looks set to release an ARM-based smartbook next year, after shelving plans earlier this year.

Asus showed off smartbook prototypes this summer, running Qualcomm's SnapDragon and Google's Android operating system, but later said it wouldn't be putting any development money into the idea quite yet.

However, the product seems to be back on the front burner now, with chief executive Jerry Shen reportedly saying the price could come in at 6,000 Taiwanese dollars, which works out to roughly 112.

ARM showed off a prototype netbook device earlier this week, and will likely help shakeup the netbook market in the coming year.

Asus hasn't yet responded to queries concerning the device, but said innovations were always in the works.