Vodafone to offer 3G-enabled Dell Mini Inspiron 9

A version with built-in 3G mobile broadband available at retail

Vodafone in the UK has announced that it will be offering a version of Dell's new Inspiron Mini 9 laptop with built-in 3G mobile broadband at its retail stores

The laptop, which offers high-speed access to the web when users are on-the-go and will be available through Vodafone's online and its high-street stores, as well as direct from Dell.

"The announcement marks the next step in the evolution of mobile broadband services bringing mobile broadband into the hands of many more customers"," said Andrew Sangster, director of PC Connectivity, Vodafone.

Pricing and availability has yet to be released.

The Windows XP-based Dell Inspiron Mini 9 uses solid state disc (SSD) memory, comes with an 8.9in LED display (1024 x 600) and a keypad, which Dell promises to be "large and easy to navigate".

The Inspiron Mini 9 has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a built-in webcam as standard. Standalone prices for the Windows XP version start at £299 including VAT and delivery.

Versions of the Inspiron Mini 9 using Ubuntu 8.04 and a Dell-developed custom interface are expected to be available shortly with a starting price of £269 including VAT and delivery.