TechFast: Netbooks Still Alive, Spotify’s Deal, Google Voice Number Porting

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Good morning! Here are some of today’s top tech links so far. We’ll cover a few of these throughout the day but feel free to get a head start.

Netbooks to maintain shipments above 30 million in 2011

Link: DigiTimes

Apparently rumors of the netbook’s death have been greatly exaggerated. While 2011 will see plenty of tablets, it’ll also see some 30 million netbooks.

One Down: Spotify Signs Sony to U.S. Deal

Link: All Things Digital

European streaming music service, Spotify, has been trying to crack its way into the U.S. for what seems like ages. The biggest obstacle so far has been a major one: the music labels aren’t convinced the company can turn a profit. Apparently Sony has finally softened its stance. Will the others follow?

BitTorrent Inventor Demos New P2P Live Streaming Protocol

Link: TorrentFreak

The BitTorrent protocol has made it easy to share large files between several users quickly. Its inventor is ramping up efforts to tackle live video streaming now, too, with an emphasis on delivering high-quality video more quickly and efficiently than other methods currently in use.

Google Voice now lets you port your own phone number (update: option disappears)

Link: Engadget

Now you see it, now you don’t. It looks like it’ll eventually make its way into Google Voice, though. The ability to port your phone number into Google’s online switchboard will carry a one-time fee of $20.

A Better Mobile Experience for More People

Link: The Facebook Blog

Facebook is spreading, with the social networking giant picking up the data tab for its feature phone app in countries all over the world. Crappy phone? No problem. You’ll still have Facebook.

Recently on Techland (in case you missed it):

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AT&T To Combat Verizon With New Text Plans, (Technically) Faster Network?

HP Tablet Might Just Be A Small Piece Of A Palm-Infused Puzzle

Nintendo 3DS Launching on March 27th for $250

Angry Birds Headed To TV?