“Recognizing that a good Internet appliance is a combination of
a fitting form factor and compelling content, Gateway and America
Online have joined forces to create a family of home devices.
The Linux-based systems will all run a specialized version of
AOL called Instant AOL, which will be immediately available when
the devices are powered on.”
“Three form factors will be on hand: a countertop appliance, a
desktop appliance, and a wireless Web pad. Each will cost under
$500. The devices should start hitting the market by year’s end,
although the Web pad probably won’t be available until early
2001.”
“Do these appliances portend the end for PCs? Don’t count on it.
Gateway’s Spelich explains that they are highly complementary to
the PC. “Some-where in the networked home you’ll need a PC as a
server to let you use these devices simultaneously and in all
rooms,” he says. Still, there’s no question that if anyone can
possibly change the perception of the limitation of Internet
appliances, AOL, with its 22 million members, can.”