Apple Computer's popular Mac mini may have spurred a new computer style revolution, as AOpen is working on a prototype machine that pays heavy homage to its compact design. Based on Intel's Pentium M CPU, the prototype is to be unveiled at the Computex trade show, which runs May 31 through June 4.
Apple has been using the Mac mini to encourage users of Intel-based PCs running Windows to "switch," a campaign Intel hopes to blunt. But analysts said they don't see big consumer demand for a clone of the stylish and popular box, or much of a threat to Apple.
"I don't think the two – Mac mini and whatever Intel puts out – are really in the same market; that is, of course, unless Apple starts running OS X on x86 hardware," said IDC analyst Roger Kay.