AU Optronics, one of the largest LCD panel makers said that it is planning to launch a 10-inch LCD panel for netbooks (mini-notebooks) in third quarter this year. Paul Peng VP and General Manager of IT display business said that since 8.9-inch panels are most suitable for Internet browsing, it is only logical for 8.9-inch panels to replace 7-inch ones. However, since 10-inch panels have the same resolution as 8.9-inch, replacement will not be as fast.
AUO expects demand of LCD panels for netbooks will be high, as both Asus and Acer have said that they would ship 5 million units by end of 2008. Dell and HP will also launch new product in the category for third quarter. AUO has already landed orders from Asus, Acer, Dell and HP for second half of 2008. It is estimated that the company will hold more than 50% market share for netbooks LCD panels in 2008.
[Via Digi Times]