Everex is said to be planning to launch a re-branded version of the Packard Bell Easynote XS running Everex’s Ubuntu-based gOS, according to Linux Devices and UMPC Portal. Everex’s new laptop, called the Cloudbook, is approximately the same size as the Asus Eee PC, has a 7″ screen, and costs $400, making it a clear Eee PC competitor. You can read the full specifications of the Packard Bell Easynote XS on UMPC Portal. Additionally, Linux Devices reports that a developer version will be available a few weeks before the release date. The developer version will include a touch screen. Linux Devices suggests that the touch screen will be implemented in a later version of the Cloudbook.

Previously, there has never been a successful touch screen based laptop, although there have been rumors of them. If the Cloudbook does eventually include a touch screen and it became successful, it would open up a new way of making ultra mobile computers. Although this may be too much to hope for, it would greatly benefit Linux if the first successful touch screen laptop came with Linux.