The DigiTimes has word that Gigabyte Technology is planning to launch three 10-inch netbooks in the second quarter of 2009.

Richard Ma, vice president of Gigabyte, is still optimistic about the notebook market despite the global economic crisis, and the launch of these netbooks along with a 13.3-inch notebook, are parted of an adjusted operating strategy that the company hopes will lead to increased shipments this year.

Ma said that because Gigabyte’s netbook products offer higher specs than those of the competition, they have been pricing them at roughly US$150 more, but that limited shipments to 25,000 units last year. The new range will all have prices starting at US$400, but the company is considering a cheaper model priced below US$300 for emerging markets.