With a bang: Asus and Bang & Olufsen collaborate on new gadget

Las Vegas – The humble netbook has been given a premium makeover at the Consumer Electronics Show. Chinese computer manufacturer Asus has teamed up with design-led electronics brand Bang & Olufsen (B&O) to create the Asus NX90.

Designed by award-winning B&O chief designer David Lewis, the polished-aluminium NX90 features twin touchpads on either side of the keyboard that support multi-touch functionality and can be used simultaneously. The netbook also boasts dual speakers from the audio experts.

The netbook market, which has grown in popularity among value-driven consumers over the past year, is now poised to develop along a couple of paths. The devices are expected to expand in capability and function, as well as shrink in size to create a new category of smartbooks that rival smartphones.

LS:N Global will review the Consumer Electronics Show next week, bringing all the key themes and trends set to change the way we consume technology and gadgets in the coming 12 months.