Computer maker Dell has officially launched the Inspiron duo, a new take on the convertible tablet PC that features a new flip-hinge design that enables the system to operate like a traditional notebook computer with a keyboard, a touchscreen tablet, or an entertainment PC just be reconfiguring the screen orientation. The Inspiron duo sports a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, runs Windows 7, and can be used with an optional dock with a media card reader, speakers, Ethernet, and USB.
“Dell is changing the shape of computing, with products that usher in new experiences and allow people to stay connected to each other and the content they love from almost anywhere,” said Cell Consumer VP Sam Burd, in a statement. “The new Inspiron duo’s dual purpose delivers one-touch access to great content and yet offers the functionality of a full keyboard for more intensive applications.”
The Inspiron duo sports a 10.1-inch 1,366 by 768-pixel display with capacitive multitouch capabilities, driven by integrated Intel NM10 graphics. The system is powered by an Intel Atom Dual Core N550 processor running at 1.5 GHz and packs 2 GB of RAM, up to 320 GB of hard drive storage, a 1.3 megapixel webcam, 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 3.0 wireless networking. The system also sports mic and headphone jacks, a SIM card slot for use with mobile broadband capabilities, and Windows 7 Home Premium pre-installed. But users won’t have to cope with tapping and gesturing their way through Windows (if they don’t want to): Dell has equipped the Inspiron duo with “duo Stage,” a new user interface that lets users cal into music, video, photos, and ebooks easily while in tablet mode. Dell is also offering a separate optional duo Dock Station with a 7-in-1 media card reader, JBL speakers, two additional USB ports, and an Ethernet adapter—plus the dock will charge the Inspiron duo’s battery while displaying photos or acting as a digital alarm clock.
The Inspiron duo is available today online from Dell with prices starting at $549; adding the optional dock bumps the price to $649.
