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Asus continues with the netbook festival, as the company has just unveiled the Eee PC 1008HA , which is also known as the “Shell”, for its unique rounded design. Although this latest version comes with the usual specs, looking at the externals clearly proves it was designed for the high-end market, thanks to a very slim and curved chasis, housing 3G and WiMAX capabilities, along with the traditional integrated WiFi/Bluetooth connections. Regretfully, we’re unable to share info about pricing or availability at this point, but we promise to update as soon as we hear about any official announcement, so stay tuned.

Update1: Checkout the new Eee Dock app launcher, demonstrated on the 1008HA netbook [after the break].

Update2: According to thelink the 1008HA will have a competitive price, standing at £360 or $524USD. Still no word about availability, at this point.

Update3: We’re hearing unofficial rumors that the 1008HA is expected to make a debut somewhere in May, but still no Asus source to confirm this one.

Update4: May 6 – Looks like the 1008HA Seashell is officially ready to hit the UK market in about two weeks, priced a little higher than previously mentioned, at £379 ($572), and claimed to be available in the US very soon. apparently, Amazon UK is taking pre-orders, so if you can’t wait anymore just hit the link and get your brand new device.

Update5: ASUS has officially announced the 1008HA Seashell will be available to pre-order in the US from May 18th, priced at $429. Considering the high-end design, together with Intel’s Atom N280 processor running at 1.66GHz and the other specs, which include a 10.1-inch 1024 x 600 LED-backlit display, 1GB of RAM, 160GB hard-drive, WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR and a 1.3MP webcam, we think it’s a good deal, you should all pay attention to.

Update6: So the new thin Eee PC 1008HA Seashell netbook is finally up for pre-order with a $20 discount, in case you’re one of those early adopters geeks. After rebate, the fancy edition will set you back for $410 USD, as White version is expected to be delivered on May 27th and the Black one, the day after. Hit the link to get the promotional discount here.

Update7: The guys at NetbookItalia have dismantled the desirable Eee PC 1008HA Seashell netbook into pieces, unveiling  a bizarre amount of masking tape bands all over the place, but also a nice 2.5-inch hard-drive unit, removable RAM installation and Atheros AR9285 module, supporting n-draft WiFi connection. Hit the jump to see another picture.

[Via UMPCPortal]

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by Engadget