Disney unveils kids' laptops

Walt Disney Co. is introducing $350 netbooks for children ahead of the holidays, even as other toy companies shy away from expensive items to appease recession-hit shoppers.

The 'Disney Netpal' -- a laptop computer typically used for Internet browsing and e-mailing -- will start selling at Toys "R" Us stores in the United States and Canada and Amazon.com in late July.

The company's move comes as toymakers such as Mattel Inc (MAT.N) and Hasbro Inc (HAS.N), and retailers like Toys "R" Us, have pointed to demand for cheaper toys, as job losses, the weak housing market and tight access to credit have erased parents' ability to spend freely for their children.

Many analysts have said that selling affordable toys will be a better bet to attract shoppers this year.

This is Disney's first attempt at selling a laptop in North America and comes about five years after the No. 1 U.S. entertainment conglomerate tried to enter the personal computer space with a $1,000 desktop in 2004, according to Disney.

(Via Reuters)

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