Dell adds 12in notebook-not-netbook to support site

Launch imminent?

By Tony Smith • Get more from this author

16th October 2008 14:35 GMT

Dell hasn't launched its anticipated 12in notebook-not-netbook, the Inspiron Mini 12, but that hasn't stopped the PC giant adding the machine to its support pages.

Alas, once there, there's not actually an awful lot to look at, which is why this story is devoid of pictures.

But the fact it's mentioned at all suggests that the 12in machine - already confirmed by Dell executives after UK grocer Tesco accidentally mentioned the machine on its website - will be launched soon.

Dell first put Mini 9 information on its support website early in September. The 8.9in Small, Cheap Computer was launched just days later.

The new laptop's name and model number - 1210, since you ask - suggest it'll be pitched as the Mini 9's bigger brother. With a 12in screen, it's going to be a little large for an SCC, but the Mini 12 could be Dell's attempt to come up with a cut-price skinny laptop to beat Apple's MacBook Air.

If not, it's hard to see what the benefit of a 12in Atom-based standard-look laptop will be over, say, an ordinary 12 or 13in notebook.