Netbooks get a lot of flak for not being able to handle HD content too well. These devices are too tiny, but they do pack a punch. Nevertheless, their purpose was never to be a mobile HD entertainment device. But it seems manufacturers have finally figured out a way to make it easier for netbook owners to watch HD content on their netbooks when they are on the go. Many new netbook models will sport Nvidia ION technology which will make watching HD videos on a netbook much easier.

HP is one of the few manufacturers that are jumping on the chance on bring HD videos to netbooks. HP is planning to introduce Mini 311 netbook with Nvidia ION to the market soon. The device will come with a 11.6″ screen, making it one of the largest netbooks on the market. While the graphics capabilities of HP Mini 311 have excited many netbook fans, it is the battery life that will be interesting to watch when it comes to testing this device. HP netbooks are known for not having too long of a battery life, and that could always be a hassle if you are on the road and don’t want to spend your time charging and recharging your netbook at all times. It’s also disappointing that HP did not decide to go with N280 CPU and wireless N support on Mini 311.

Mini 311 Netbook is interesting to watch, but perhaps more interesting is the wave of ION-based netbooks that are coming in the upcoming months. Just as you think the netbook market is maturing, the manufacturers find a new way to excite netbook fans.

[via Engadget]