Laptop plus bamboo equals cool
Bamboo laptops...why not?
(Credit: CNET)We first heard about this bamboo-covered laptop from Asus several months ago, and with that company's history of leather wrist rests and automotive-branded lids, it certainly fits right in with the creative Asus designs we're used to seeing. Now, at long last, we've finally gotten a chance to get a look in person, as Asus was in New York last week, showing off a handful of new systems (including the N10 "high-end" Netbook).
The bamboo laptops are built around two existing Asus models, the 12-inch U6S (which we reviewed very positively earlier in the year), and the 11-inch U2E.
As is usual for most Asus products (except the seemingly ubiquitous Eee PC Netbook), actual U.S. availability is sketchy, though a few online retailers, including Amazon.com, are taking preorders for the 12-inch version at $1,999. So for now, check out this photo we snapped late last week, and as a bonus, we're throwing in a second shot of an Asus prototype--another 12-inch system covered with what looks like gold leaf (we're assured it's not actual gold, although that would be pretty cool).
A laptop covered in faux gold--perhaps an inappropriate gesture considering the current financial crisis.
(Credit: CNET)
New York native Dan Ackerman, a former radio DJ turned journalist, has written about technology and music for publications including Spin, Blender, The Hollywood Reporter, and USA Today. He hosts the weekly Digital City podcast and the New York edition of Editors' Office Hours. Dan's new album, Tales Out of Night School, is available now. E-mail Dan. 
