Some vendors use Micro-USB form factor port, to throw digital video data through it (port is different than microUSB, but microUSB compatible - i.e., you can use it as normal microUSb, but when you connect "special" cable and choose "special" option in software, it becomes digital out. Sound is still carried via audio jack, so it's not HDMI, technically, but for all sane use cases, it's as good.

Not that I have high hopes for that particular feature (which is a shame, as it would compliment such mobile computer pretty nicely). even having some standardized connectors on board itself would help a lot, especially for custom case builders.
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@dos1:
I absolutely understand your (as in group, developers of possible Neo900 device) point of view, and all concerns re parts availability. I'm far from "I demand ultimate powa for low price" stance.

Although, realistically approaching the case, there are few things to consider. We have a N900 with 256 MB of RAM (it's most limiting factor) available for purchase for 100 EUR, in ideal condition - sometimes, even less. Prices continue to drop (although slower than before). Now, if after a ~year, OpenMoko team will propose a device with slightly better CPU and 512 RAM, for a 600, 800, or 1000 EUR, the price difference vs. abvailable N900 and "gain vs. price" ratio will still look terribly poor.

Sure, having fully controlled hardware with ~1 closed blob is extremely nice. Having it developed Open way is even better. But, despite initial enthusiasm presented in this thread, I really don't think that many people will buy a ~600 EUR more expensive device, just for that.

Now, if you ask me about N900's biggest bootleneck, it's RAM. I think most will agree. As you've said, 512 MB gives room for improvement, but it is still under-powered even in pair with *current* N900 CPU (in practice, working up to 900 mhz completely stable and without non-negligible impact on hardware life). A little better CPU could gain even more by better RAM.

Considering this, 1GB of RAM seems to be an equilibrium, bringing best balance between CPU, RAM, and graphic chip (as said, I would rather see a SoX with same CPU as now, and more RAM, than only upgraded CPU). 1GB RAM seems to extend feasible usage life of N900 by ~10 years - loosely calculating, based on current situation of "what we want to run and what we can run on it in practice", 5 years after device release. Then, even 600 EUR difference doesn't look so bad - 60 EUR per year of gain.
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Now, again, It's not any scientific calculation (it seems than none in this thread is, actually), but with such huge prices as joerg_rw suggests, and gain of only 512 of RAM, I don't expect more than 100 people actually bringing their money. And that is optimistic from my side - heck, despite love of the idea, I'm not sure if I would be in.

/Estel