Dell goes upmarket with XPS 13 ultrabook

Stephen Withers
Wednesday, 11 January 2012 16:50

Your IT - Mobility

The Dell XPS 13 appears to be the company's answer to Apple's MacBook Air.

Dell's new XPS 13 ultrabook stresses design as well as usability and performance.

Features include a 13.3in WLED display with edge-to-edge Gorilla Glass so the overall size is similar to an 11in model. Other features include a full-size backlit keyboard, a machined aluminium and carbon fibre enclosure, 4GB of RAM, Wi-Fi (a/g/n), Bluetooth, USB 2.0 and 3.0, and a choice of Core i5 or i7 processors and 128GB or 256GB SSDs.

It also includes Intel Smart Connect (to allow periodic collection of calendar events and emails while the system is asleep) and Rapid Start for quick startup.

The XPS 13 is 316mm wide, 205mm deep, and between 6 and 18mm thick. Depending on configuration, it weighs as little as 1.36kg. The battery - taking a leaf out of the MacBook Air book, it is not user-replaceable - is said to give up to eight hours use.

"The XPS 13 is the culmination of an extensive design and development process focused on creating the best Ultrabook on the planet," said Jeff Clarke, vice chairman, global operations and end user computing.

"It is specifically engineered to help both our consumer and commercial customers be more productive and connected in every way possible. From the edge-to-edge frameless display that packs more screen into a compact body, to the innovative carbon fibre base that is lightweight and cool to the touch, the XPS 13 exemplifies our commitment to offering industry-leading mobile solutions that deliver durability and performance without compromise," he added.

The XPS 13 is scheduled for March release in Australia. Prices have yet to be announced.