ASUS AiGuru SV1T Skype Videophone [7-in 800x480 Touchscreen, Wi-Fi & Ethernet Connectivity, Integrated Webcam, Microphone]

It wasn’t that long ago (December 2008, actually) that ASUS released its first generation standalone Skype-certified videophone, the ASUS AiGuru SV1, and the market didn’t seem to care all that much. For some reason, the whole idea of the videophone hasn’t seemed to gain mass-market acceptance and they continue to remain a rather small niche within the technology world. Sure, you see them in movies and in the boardroom, but they aren’t exactly sitting next to the toaster and coffee maker now, are they? ASUS is hoping to garner wider market attention with its updated version of the SV1; the new touchscreen enabled AiGuru SV1T.

The original AiGuru is basically a standalone Skype-certified videophone meant for those users that don’t want to bother with the whole computer thing. It gives users the ability to make and receive calls using a more turnkey approach to the activity. Just like the original model released last year, the new SV1T has a built-in webcam, speaker, and microphone along with integrated Wi-Fi capabilities. Where it does its older brother one better is in its display. ASUS has added a new touchscreen interface to the already impressive 7-in 800×480 LCD display.

As for simplicity, the ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T definitely looks easy to use. The interface continues to be based on large graphics and with the addition of the new touchscreen users don’t even have to use the somewhat clumsy D-pad to navigate through them anymore. The AiGuru SV1T also allows users to make calls to fixed and mobile lines (with toll charges, of course) and if they happen to have an online Skype number they can receive calls on the unit, too.

The ASUS Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T sports a rechargeable battery along with an included AC adapter. The units are available for sale now and will probably have a price tag similar to that of its predecessor at around $300. Given the continuing decline of netbook pricing this is going to continue to be a tough sell for ASUS. Head over to www.skype.com for more info.