Acer just announced the Acer Aspire one, a mobile “Internet device” that looks strangely like a laptop.

Of course, it is a laptop. However, it’s a $379 laptop—and it includes plenty of extras to boot. Aside from access to your email, Facebook, and other web applications, the lightweight unit includes VoIP calling features, a webcam for streaming video, and more.

“It’s an excellent introductory device for both students and others to browse the Internet and take advantage of online research, social networking, streaming video and video conferencing,” said Sumit Agnihotry, Acer’s product marketing director. “We’re pleased to make this exciting product available to customers in the U.S. with several new models.”

Students? Their strapping young backs can handle a bigger load. My hunched spinal column, however, could use the rest. Weighing in at 2.17 pounds and measuring 9.8 x 6.7 x 1.14-inches, the unit comes in various colors, with more coming later this year. Other specs include a 1024x600 resolution, an Intel processor, and various USB ports and card readers.

Two versions are available: One with Windows XP Home and another with Linpus Linux Lite. The XP version uses a 3-cell battery that promises up to 3 hours of battery life. The Linux one gets an extra 4 hours from a 6-cell battery.

The Acer Aspire one is available now for $379 to $449, depending on the configuration.

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.