Laptop Thoughts: Jolicloud Helps You Get Your Jolibook

"The Jolicloud Jolibook. Oh yes, it's sounded like a made-up device ever since the pictures of it started to leak out, but the netbook centered around the Jolicloud Linux operating system is indeed a real product. So real that we've been using the Atom N550-powered system over the past few days. Sure, we've gotten looks in public because its cartoon-covered lid, but the £279 ($443) machine isn't meant for "grown-ups" -- it's intended for a younger set, or those between the ages of 15 and 25."

There seems to be two main things to consider about the Jolicloud Jolibook; the hardware and the software. On the hardware side of things, the Jolibook seems to be very pedestrian. The only remarkable aspect of the netbook is the lid, which if you decide to be a must have, I am sure you can find a skin protector that has a similar theme. The only real selling point of the Jolibook is the OS which is free to download and install on any other laptop. I am reminded of the model that Apple uses, where Jolicloud is responsible for the entire product, but the Jolibook seems to lack the polish that Apple is famous for. While I think it is certainly a decent attempt, the hardware is going to need more finesse than a questionably trendy cover to stand out. Has the Jolibook actually caught your eye? What makes it a must buy for you?