Netbook's, or mini-laptops as they are known, popularity, low price, portability, and solid state technology make them prime targets for innovation. Companies like Cyberlink, a multi-media software developer, want in. Their PowerCinema Linux, a custom Linux distribution bundling media software including photo, music, video and a DVD player, may be one of several new choices given to Netbook buyers.

The small notebook computers already come standard with Xandros, Linpus Lite, or Windows XP. The Asus Eee PC and Acer Aspire One are the best-known examples of the Netbook PCs.

One of Cyberlink's offerings, Cyberlink Live, allows users to acess and use their media files and documents from anywhere. There is a free version and a premium version that allows live TV show recording and viewing. Cyberlink is in negotiations now to add their software to Netbooks but no word as yet which ones or when.

Linux is attractive to manufacturers and vendors because it is free and there are no licensing hang-ups from using it. Linux is easily customized to fit any need or whim and the customized version may be redistributed at will.