Cloud Computing and the MacBook Air

In the last couple of years, the idea of cloud computing has begun to show itself. Cloud computing is the idea of using the internet as a hub to access applications and personal files instead of relying on local hard drives, etc. Advances in wireless network accessibility, “web technologies” like AJAX, and laptop performance (and popularity) all can be attributed to cloud computing.

More and more, people are relying on web-based applications instead of desktop apps. Map applications are popular for getting directions, sites like expensr and mint and helping individuals with financial matters, and Google Docs and Spreadsheets is gaining ground on the Microsoft Office suite. The popularity and availability of these web apps means people can get more accomplished in a variety of settings.

Earlier this month, Apple announced the MacBook Air. This ultra-compact laptop was designed with the wireless lifestyle in mind. It ranges from 0.16 to 0.76 inches thick, which is incredibly small for a computer of any size. It features a 13.3″ 1280 x 800 pixel widescreen display, full keyboard, Core2 Duo processor, 80 GB hard drive and 2 GB of RAM. It even has the option to replace the hard drive with a (pricey) 64 GB solid state drive. All in all, it is a great notebook and at only 3 pounds can be taken just about anywhere.

However, the MacBook Air is quite pricey compared to other ultra-portable laptops and wireless devices. The Asus eee PC retails for $300-400 and, with a 7″ screen and a total weight of just over 2 pounds, is even more portable. The Nokia N810 features a 4.3″ touch screen, slide out QWERTY keyboard and a Linux-based OS with a Mozilla-based browser for $399. Even the iPhone/iPod Touch is a good alternative, with a 3.5″ multi-touch screen, Safari and Mail and 8-16 GB of storage space. The point is that there are other devices that are much, much cheaper but still have the necessary functionality and large enough screens to be efficient.

I think cloud computing will be very popular in the future. However, I think Apple was premature in releasing such a high-end wireless device that has trouble operating as a traditional laptop (only 1 USB port, no ethernet, etc) and is many times more expensive than its competitors. What is your opinion on the MacBook Air?