We don't use networking. We use direct RF link.
>Plus, the laptop would lose 90% of its mobility advantage, as it would always have to be in the (network-) vicinity of a desktop.
This is not a replacement for laptop. But an extension of a desktop. Instead of having to sit directly infront of it, you can work from anywhere in the same building.
My guess is that this would cost at least 80% of a similar quality laptop that also includes "computer parts" and works as an actual computer. Hell, the current HDMI video streaming dongles like Chromecast have more processing power built in than my first actual laptop.
80%? Without cpu, harddisk, memory, motherboard and without having to cramming all of this into a small space, without heat and power management circulatory to provide and manage power for all of these things? So in a laptop, you think these amount to only 20% of the cost?
> enough processing power to decode and display the video stream arriving over radio
How much processing power did your 20 year old television set have?
Let me say this again. For 60$ worth of components you can have a remote control that will let you work on your desktop from anywhere in your home.
Will you be interested?
[1] http://www.amazon.in/eShop24x7-Wireless-Display-Miracast-Air...