Information doesn’t get much more twisted that this so you’d best tread lightly with it. We’ve got a DigiTimes rumor whose message appears modified in translation. Engadget Chinese tells us that the original DigiTimes article (in Chinese) states that Asus is planning an Eee PC “sub-corporation.” In other words, an ASUS spin-off that would include more than just low-cost ultra-portables. The rumor is attributed to DigiTimes‘ proven ASUS sources. However, DigiTimes‘ own English translation simply calls the move an Eee “sub-brand” which was already obvious with ASUS’ announced plans for additional Eee branded products including the E-DT desktop, E-TV television, and 19- to 21-inch E-Monitor all-in-one said to be due in Q3. DigiTimes’ sources also claim that ASUS will slap a 1001 model number on its 10.6-inch Eee PC and then — perhaps supporting the spin-off claim — says that there will be a premium 11-inch Eee PC before the end of the year as well. Originally, Jerry Shen, ASUS CEO, said the Eee PC would never exceed 10-inches so that it wouldn’t cut into ASUS’ laptop offerings. A spinoff would presumably give the Eee brand more freedom to compete.
