Asus to replace Eee PC 900 batteries

Earlier this week reports started to emerge that Asus had attempted to up its test scores by sending out review units of their Eee PC 900 fitted with bigger batteries than those supplied to customers. Apparently, while reviewers were given a 4-cell, 5800mAh battery that lasts a paltry 2.5 hours, customers were stuck with a 4-cell, 4400mAh battery offering an even-less-useful 1.5 hours of use.

Well, now the company is moving quickly to avoid a potential PR disaster. Asus claims the batteries given to testers were a mistake and has agreed to replace any Eee PC 900 batteries smaller than advertised or reviewed with new ones. Though this is a good move on Asus’ part, with an ultra-portable machine like the Eee PC, battery life is one of the most important factors in day to day usage, and 2.5 hours of use don’t quite cut the mustard.