Dell launches Inspiron Mini 9 (finally)

The rumors were true. Dell has finally launched the Inspiron Mini 9 and has confirmed the netbook will have Intel's Atom processor N270, solid state drive (SSD), Wi-Fi, 8.9-inch LED display, and a spill-resistant keyboard. The 2.28 pound netbook designed for teens, tweens, travelers, and "Tweeters," will start selling for $349 in black or white.

The press release is a little vague, but it does say a Windows XP Home version will be available immediately for $399, with Windows XP or Ubuntu 8.04 versions on the way. I'm not sure how legit or current this leaked flyer is, but it lists three configurations of the laptop called the Standard, Social, and XP Edition that could give us a better idea of what's inside each model. Bluetooth and webcams are optional add-ons, although the flyer shows the Social and XP Editions will come with an integrated webcam and 8GB of storage.

Speaking of storage, the press release doesn't go into specifics about storage probably because it's all customizable, but since the netbooks are equipped with flash memory, Dell has partnered with Box.net to give users up to 2GB of free storage space online. This can obviously be expanded to up to 25GB for a monthly fee, but I'm sure you can use a memory stick to store your photos, music, and files if you run out of space. Like Apple, Dell has also teamed up with Timbuk2 to offer "Designed for Dell" backpacks, messenger bags, and cases for the Mini 9.

Overall, it looks like a decent computer, but it will be hard to compete with Acer's netbook which has more storage, a built-in webcam, and is way cheaper even if you buy the Windows XP version.

Update: Dell says on its blog it will be selling the Inspiron Mini for $99 with the purchase of a Studio 15, XPS M1530 or an XPS M1330 laptop. This offer will start September 5 and end September 9. Click here for more details.