Great post! And thanks for the Deeda reference. This is precisely what I'm talking about regarding a mountable physical devices, although the form and the mounts can be different (they should be very, very sturdy). Best yet, there are visualizations on the site that lets one see what some of these devices might look like (gamepad/ keyboards).

For those that don't know, check it out here: http://www.deeda.com/deeda-devices.html

The mountable paradigm is so strong because it gives users choice, but doesn't force things on them.

I remember looking at the Deeda Pi with longing eyes before. I'll keep my eye on this device and it's progress. Certainly, its form factor, vision, and openness, make it (IMO) the strongest N-Series Internet Tablet competitor I've seen so far. Hopefully it's not vaporware.

I think the idea of video out can play a much more important role in the future. Right now, the N810, though capable, is stunted by a relatively slow processor and memory. This will inevitably change as hardware becomes more sophisticated. At a certain point, one should be able to literally use the N900 in the place of a portable computer (without being constrained to a tiny screen) if it can use a comfortable keyboard, a mouse or other pointing device, and a larger screen (with a higher resolution). This can only happen, however, if there is some type of built in video-out (NAY!), or external dock (YAY!).

I also appreciate your vision for interfaceless-wireless-networking device. It's a great idea and would be a good accessory for the current line of tablets, and future tablets, by giving the user choice of which network they can have access to. This is especially useful due to the growing number of wireless 'standards' out there. Eventually, one or two will become dominant, but that shouldn't prevent NIT users from getting on them now!

Personally, I would still like a mountable variant of such a device. This is just personal taste, but I like the idea of having everything in one convenient package high-speed, low power package.

Both versions of the 'network companion' (mountable and wireless) would easily cover most users preferences, without forcing them in a particular direction.


}:^)~
YARR!

Capt'n Corrupt