Now that it's coming closer to commercially launch some MID's to public it's becoming VERY VERY clear that the terminology to describe these "computer devices" is REALLY getting out of hands.

Before Microsoft started their big UMPC hype campaign, there were some other terms that were used - I guess Ultraportable, subnotebook, mini-laptop etc. were some of the names and also term like mobile computer was on the rise.

But then UMPC term came and changed it all, Microsoft was very successful in launching a new "PC category term" with great expectations - It got so widely spread and popular, that it became - I guess almost a dominant term for a while.

Then after disappointing first year and Microsoft's lack of effort to develop "Mobile Interfaces" (and I guess cheaper license), Intel decided that they can take a lead in this side, and since there was need to have new UI anyway, they could as well use cheaper Linux underneath it all. At the same time they decided that these need to be separated from UMPC's (since PC to many Indicates Windows), so the term MID was created.

Then on the second year to UMPC field came a big transition. Majority of popular UMPC's started to have keyboards and started to be more like small tablet PC's or mini laptops. So in 2008 even one of the most popular UMPC, the HTC Shift, don't want to be UMPC anymore.

What next?

If UMPC=Windows, MID=Linux and Air=Apple ;) I really wonder, where do we go from here?

Most likely in the long run that's for users to decide, what they will call their devices.

I think that Mobile is the dominant describing term (also currently in both MID & UMPC) and all you need after that is "computer" to say what it is. Like now in Desktop Computer & Laptop Computer, regardless if those are Windows, Linux or Apple

For me word "mobile" means three things:

1. Can easily be used anywhere (No table, or lap needed)
2. Need to have mobile connection (build-in)
3. Battery must last for a day with "normal use"

I'm setting up a poll (here too) to start collecting votes. I hope some other sites, forums & blogs will start similar poll's in this matter as well, and maybe after some time we can combine this data to see what the outcome is.

My vote goes for Mobile Computer - what's yours?

Edit: (I could not get the poll options to fill out. Help anyone?) but here are the options:

1. UMPC - Ultra Mobile PC
2. MID - Mobile Internet Device
3. Mobile Computer
4. Personal Mobile Computer
5. Mobile PC
6. Ultraportable
7. UMD - Ultra Mobile Device
8. Some other

Edit 2: Ok it's here too

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Interested in UMPC's and trying to help to promote them to everyone with a twist of personality - via UMPC focused site/blog at: www.pimpmyumpc.com

With a variety of terms tossed about, maybe technology enthusiasts need to vote on an appropriate term.

Note: This poll is a merge of a member. Poll features are only enabled for administrators.

__________________
Layne P. Heiny / Administrator for Tux Reports Network

Please do not send private messages requesting technical support. Place your request in the proper forum and hopefully someone can help you.

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