[Microsoft Watch] The hybrid device, which won’t be available until sometime in the "post-Longhorn" timeframe, will measure 9-inches diagonally, weigh between one to two pounds; feature an all-day-life battery; and run a full Tablet version of the Longhorn operating system, Microsoft officials said. The systems also will include Microsoft Reader and ClearType, allowing them to function not just as Tablets, but also as eBook systems. Microsoft is describing this system, code-named "Haiku," as an "ultra-mobile PC." Microsoft is working to find OEMs to build these new devices and sell them for between $500 and $800 U.S., making them ideal for the academic market, among others.

Wow. It’s too bad that these devices won’t be out for a few years - if they could hit a $500 pricepoint, had a killer form factor and built-in wireless, this could be a major turning point ultraportable devices.