"The term netbook was re-introduced by Intel in February 2008 to describe a category of small-sized, low-cost, light weight, lean function subnotebooks optimized for Internet access and core computing functions (e.g., word processing) — either directly from applications installed on the netbook itself or indirectly, via cloud computing. More than 50 million Netbooks are expected to be in widespread circulation by 2011."

Follow up:

For some people weight and portability are common concerns for notebook (laptop) consumers. Consider the new netbook trend that has students and business worked up. The reason most people would choose a netbook is because it is lightweight, easily portable in a backpack, and cost efficient.

Netbooks are best for people who do simple things on the computer. This includes surfing the web, typing, email, simple games, ext... The netbook has a smaller screen so you may want to check it out before you buy it. You may not be able to read things on it well.

The netbook's price range is around $250 to $500 from what I have seen. Many netbooks contain a hard disk drive called a solid state drive or SSD. These drives are very popular due to their durability, speed, and longevity. SSDs last a lot longer because they use flash memory to store all of your files and operating system. There are no moving parts in a SSD and speed is noticeably improved. The netbook is designed for portibility and lightweight.

Netbooks may not be able to give you good support for intense video editing or anything that requires a good video card. They are definitely not designed for good gaming. Text on the screen may be hard for some people to read because of the smaller size of the screen and resolution. The keyboard is small compared to most desktop computer keyboards as well as most laptops.

When purchasing a netbook I would recommend getting AT LEAST one gigabyte (1Gb) of computer memory (RAM). That way you can be sure that the netbook will serve you well.