Disney Netpal: the netbook for kids

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse goes to work

17 June 2009 22:38 GMT / By Stuart Miles

Disney has announced that it is teaming up with Asus to create a netbook for kids, as more and more of them turn to the Internet rather than traditional toys for kicks.

Called the Disney Netpal by ASUS, the new netbook promises to be durable, with a reinforced mechanical design, and offers, says Disney, a "truly magical and engaging computing experience with a unique Disney user interface".

That magical and engaging computing experience has more than 40 robust parental control options, an 8.9-inch LCD display, Wi-Fi capabilities, Windows XP Home, and kid-friendly software featuring Disney characters and icons.

Browsers and email have extra filters to assure that parents are able to control online safety and content for their children, and can easily select with whom their children can correspond with via email. While the Disney Magic Desktop “gadget tray” offers a creatively designed 2D menu displaying Disney-themed email, Disney-themed browser and a robust suite of Disney-themed parental control options.

The Disney Netpal will be available in late July in two models with prices based on features and is designed for kids ages 6-12 priced at slightly more than your average playtime blocks or teaset; $349.99.