By DAVID RANII, Raleigh News and Observer
Lenovo sets up online world for computer consumers
Lenovo, which is pushing to grab the attention of U.S. consumers, has developed a new online sales tool.
The eLounge is a 3-D world where consumers can create an avatar -- including customizing their appearance and dress -- and then wander through a series of virtual showrooms, testing Lenovo laptops.
Saving money is in vogue again
Saving money is in vogue again.
The latest numbers from the U.S. Department of Commerce show that the personal savings rate -- that is, savings as a percentage of disposable income -- rose to 2.9 percent in the fourth quarter of 2008. That's the highest level in six years.
Don't need the power of a laptop? Try a netbook
Computer makers are betting consumers want a product that's more than a smart phone but less than a full-featured laptop.Lenovo is the latest to enter the burgeoning market for netbooks -- also known as Internet PCs. Last month, Lenovo announced plans for a 1-inch-thick IdeaPad netbook with a 10-inch screen. Starting price: $399.

