An article in Networkworld reveals that the acquisition of Neoware by HP has boosted the efforts HP is taking in the Thin Client Notebook department. HP has more than doubled research and development investments in thin client technology over the past 18 months, while adding development centers in Pennsylvania, France and Shanghai to house engineers working on new thin clients and related technology. Eighteen months ago, HP had only one thin client development center, in Houston, before adding a new one in France. The acquisition of Neoware, completed two months ago, allowed HP to take over the smaller company's technology and facilities in Shanghai and Pennsylvania. Including the acquisition of Neoware, HP officials say they have quadrupled their headcount in thin client engineering.

This new 6720t Thin Client will supposedly have support for HP RGS (Remote Graphics Software), HP's solution to deal with rich content in SBC and VDI environments (just a Calista also tries to deal with that limitation). The HP Compaq 6720t Thin Client Notebook runs Microsoft Windows XP and has Wi-Fi-powered wireless LAN, and 3G broadband wireless capabilities and a 15.4-inch screen. It will be available in late January starting at $725.