Dell showcases prototype updates to its Inspiron Mini 9 Netbook

Darius Chang | Nov 06, 2008

At a press event offering media glimpses into its Taiwan Design Center, Dell showcased possible design updates to the Inspiron Mini 9 range.

Not satisfied merely with color options, the US maker is heading for the fashion crowd with new multi-colored motifs. Though currently in the prototype stage, journalists were treated to Inspiron Mini 9 units with etched flower patterns on the top cover. For a little retro look, a shiny gold cover with Mario (from the Super Mario gaming franchise) gracing the surface was also displayed. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take photos of the new designs or told when these would be available. However, Peter Lee, Dell's industrial design senior manager, said we should be expecting new motifs on the laptops in the near future.

Another possible update lies with the keyboard. The current iteration of its 8.9-inch Netbook has one of the better keyboards in its segment. Not content to rest on its laurels, Dell showcased a prototype unit featuring individual keys (like those on the MacBook and Sony VAIO TT). By removing the beveled edges on traditional keyboards, this design allows for a larger surface and a better tactile feel.

It was emphasized that these models are just prototypes and may not even make it to the market. Still, it's nice to know that Dell has ideas to bring its Netbook segment to the next level.

Filed under: Notebooks
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