[Reid]

I'm not convinced that a MacBook mini would be the low end laptop. I think Apple would aim it at mobile executives seeking the ultimate ultra-portable, and price it accordingly. Think 1.8" hard drives, thinnest-ever enclosure, etc.

Most ultra-portables on the market today are NOT aimed at the bottom of the price bracket. Entry-level consumers care less about their laptop being super small, because they're not looking for a second computer to take on the road. They're looking for a desktop replacement. And that, to most people, would have to include a big hard drive and a screen of reasonable size.

Look for this to be the year when Apple's lineup begins to more closely resemble that of your typical PC manufacturer (in function and price point, if not in style!), now that direct comparisons are more likely to happen than ever.