Dell unveiled its newest computer today, the Adamo laptop, which it claims is the world's thinnest notebook.
The sleek, aluminum-encased notebook is 0.65" thick and comes with a 13.4-inch screen and a 128-gigabyte solid-state drive. Shipping begins today.
It is Dell's attempt to compete in the high-end ultraportable market, especially against rival Apple's iconic MacBook Air, which is 0.76" thick.
The Adamo Pearl starts at £1,400 and weighs just 4lb. It is encased in aluminum.
Although the MacBook Air is thicker than the Adamo at various points, the design makes it appear more streamlined
Starting at $1,999, (£1,400) the Adamo is positioned as Dell's new high-end brand. Another configuration will sell for an eye-watering $2,699 (£1,900).
The device comes packed in a clear case along with an optional branded sleeve or tote bag from designer luggage and handbag label Tumi.
The Adamo is meant 'to make a design statement, to surprise people that this is a Dell,' said marketing executive John New.
'This is for the customer that has that discerning taste, and is willing to pay a little more for that.'
How they compare...
Dell Adamo: $1,999 MacBook Air: $1,799
1.2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor 1.6GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor
128GB solid state drive 120GB solid state drive
13.4" screen 13.3" screen
Thickness: 0.65" Thickness: 0.16 - 0.76"
Weights: 4lbs Weight: 3lbs
Battery: 4hrs 53mins Battery: 4hrs 30mins
Software: Windows Vista Software: Mac OS X Leopard
1.3MP web camera Built-in iSight camera
Dell has been working to generate buzz for Adamo, Latin for 'to fall in love with.' Word of the PC began to leak late last year, and the company hosted an event in January in Las Vegas where it provided a fleeting glimpse of the laptop as it was held aloft by a model.
Apple helped launch the so-called ultra-portable category last year with MacBook Air . Although the Adamo is thinner, it weighs 1lb more than the 3lb Air. Its starting price is also £140 higher.
Dell's Adamo (L) is thinner but one pound heavier than Apple's Air (R)
Most PC makers, including Lenovo Group, Hewlett Packard Co and Sony Corp also sell ultraportables.
Dell has been trying to reinvigorate its consumer brand amid efforts to diversify its revenue base.
The company's shares have slid 13 per cent since the start of 2009, while Apple's have jumped 12 per cent. Dell, however, has outperformed Hewlett-Packard, whose stock has dropped 20 per cent since the year began.
