The XPS 13 has 128GB and 256GB solid-state hard drive options, plus an additional 100GB of cloud storage through Dell DataSafe.
Computer maker Dell has unveiled its
ultraportable XPS 13 notebook, a compact 13.3-inch ultrabook featuring an
edge-to-edge hardened Gorilla Glass, near "frameless" display and powerful
battery life. Starting at just under 3 pounds and less than a quarter-inch at
its thinnest point, the XPS 13 offers Intel technology such as Rapid Start and
Smart Connect.
The XPS 13 will be available at the end
of February in the United States through the company's Website and in select
retail stores nationwide at a starting price of $999 with an Intel Core i5
processor, 128GB solid-state disk (SSD) hard drive and 4GB memory.
The XPS 13 is part of Dell's XPS brand
and boasts second-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, Intel HD 3000
graphics, and a high-definition WLED 300-nit display. For users who store media
files, the XPS 13 has 128GB and 256GB SSD options, plus an additional 100GB of
cloud storage through Dell DataSafe for content backup and sharing at no extra
cost. Additionally, all XPS 13 units include a 12-month Skype Premium
subscription.
"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, at Dell. "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 fiber 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."
The notebook also features a full-size
backlit keyboard with a large glass touchpad with integrated buttons and
multi-gestural support, as well as up to 8 hours, 53 minutes of battery life.
The 13.3-inch display with slim bezel fits in a body size similar to the form
factor of an 11-inch product. Smart Connect technology is also included, which
wakes periodically to detect known networks and update calendar and email. Dell
will also integrate location awareness via Skyhook and Google Places shortly
after launch.
In addition, the first 10,000 customers
to purchase an XPS 13 in the United States will receive a free T-Mobile 4G
Mobile HotSpot, which links up to five WiFi devices to high-speed Internet, and
90 days of free mobile broadband service at up to 4G speeds on T-Mobile's 4G
Network with no annual contract at time of purchase.
"The XPS 13 represents the most
balanced of the ultrabook class of notebooks to hit the market so far," said
Rob Enderle, analyst for the Enderle Group. "Ultrabooks started by forcing
people to make a choice between beauty and practicality, and Dell took the time
to make sure their offering would not only be very attractive, but address the
critical needs of business and education buyers as well. Perhaps the best way
to describe the XPS 13 is -beautifully uncompromised.'"
Security features include standard Trusted
Platform Module for BitLocker Data Encryption and optional ProSupport
after-sales service and Configuration Services such as custom imaging and asset
tagging. In addition to the Limited Hardware Warranty, Dell is including one
year of Accidental Damage Service and one year of theft protection with
Computrace LoJack for Laptops Theft Recovery Service as standard. Accidental
Damage service protects against drops and spills and other accidents that may
occur, while Computrace LoJack for Laptops Theft Recovery Service helps track,
locate, lock down and recover a stolen system, and can also remotely delete
sensitive data.
Dell also designed the XPS 13 with the
environment in mind. Its energy-efficient LED displays have no mercury or
arsenic, and Dell eliminated toxins such as Brominated Flame Retardants and
Polyvinyl Chloride (BFR/PVCs).
Nathan Eddy is Associate Editor, Midmarket, at eWEEK.com. Before joining eWEEK.com, Nate was a writer with ChannelWeb and he served as an editor at FierceMarkets. He is a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University.
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