After using my EeePC 1201N for a couple of months I’ve decided to write up a quick, non-technical review.  Let me start by saying that I love this netbook.  I previously had an EeePC 1005-ha and the difference between the two is night and day.  In fact, it’s really hard to consider the 1201N a netbook.  It really is more like an “ultra-portable” laptop.  Weighing in at just over 3lbs. with the Intel Atom dual-core processor and Nvidia ION graphics makes this little laptop the perfect couch companion.  It will play high resolution web video content without problems. I most recently used it to watch The Masters live web coverage via HDMI connected to my living room TV. With my wireless Logitech Mediaboard connected, the experience couldn’t have been better. High definition playback was smooth and relatively glitch free. Tell me, who can do that with their iPad? I couldn’t be happier with my EeePC 1201N and would recommend it to anyone looking for a light, portable laptop / netbook.

Keep any eye on sites like newegg.com where I found mine for over $100 cheaper than retail because it was an “open-box” item. While you do have to be cautious with these items, they are usually just returned items that Newegg has deemed good and is re-selling. In my case, I got a great deal on a great netbook.

Unless a lot changes with facebook’s privacy policy, you can count me out.

If you haven’t checked your facebook privacy settings in a while, you should probably take a look.  They have once again “opened up” their data sharing policy, this time with third-party sites. I disagree with their policies and am considering deleting my account in protest.  There is something very unsettling to me about facebook and the amount of personal data they are taking ownership of.

Here’s a list of my favorite Android apps:

1. CardioTrainer / SportyPal - I like both of these apps but have been using SportyPal the most lately.  I like that I can upload and share my workouts if wanted.  The voice updates on distance and time while running is great.  If you are a runner/cycler, this is a definite must have.

2. Pandora - You cannot go wrong with a rock solid music streaming app.  Great way to find new music.

3. Google Voice - I love having transcribed voice mails among many other great features.  This service continues to get better.

4. Gesture Search - This Google made app has replaced my built-in contacts app.

5. Evernote - Excellent note taking app that syncs to the web and indexes everything for you.  You can access your notes via the web or a desktop app as welll.  Take a picture, voice or text note.  Very handy; Especially for wine labels =).

6. Places Directory - Another Google app that is great for finding nearby places of interest.  See reviews on restaurants and get turn-by-turn directions with the click of a link.  Best app of it’s kind in my opinion.

7. Seesmic - If you are into Twitter this is a great free app.

8. Listen - Yet another Google app (are you noticing a trend here?).  If you listen to podcasts this app is a must have.  You can search for and save / subscribe to most any podcast.  My favorites come from Revision3.com and the Twit.tv networks.

9. OurGroceries - This is an awesome shopping list app.  It syncs over the web to multiple devices.  There is an app for the iPhone, Blackberry, and of course Android phones.  My wife and I use it to create our shopping list throughout the week.  She uses a Blackberry (I haven’t been able to convert her yet) and I use the DROID.

10. WaveSecure - Almost forgot about this one because it is a “set it and forget it” type app.  After installing, this app allows you to remotely lock, track, and data wipe your phone.  Not free, but definitely worth the cost if you are concerned about losing your phone and your personal data.

You can find any of these apps in the Android Market. I use them all on a weekly if not daily basis and highly recommend them.  What are your must have apps?  Let me know!

If you have friends with the Nexus One and/or Android 2.1, there is no reason to be jealous.  Not after you root your Droid.  What is rooting? Basically, it is getting administrator access to your phone’s operating system.  It allows you to put new, updated and/or hacked software on your phone.  It gives you the opportunity to run applications that cannot be run on a stock DROID.  Applications like wireless tether, and CPU over-clocking for example.  Here’s a great link to get you started.

Alldroid.org Forum - How-To videos

The alldroid.org forums have been a great resource for me to get my phone rooted. There is a ton of information out there, just do a search!

Here is what my phone looks like since I have rooted it and installed a custom ROM and theme.