Dell Releases Convertible Inspiron Duo Tablet

The Inspiron Duo runs on the Windows 7 operating system and features a 10.1-inch display with a built-in 1.3-megapixel Webcam and a flip-hinge design. It supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and 4G wireless capabilities. The device runs on an Atom N550 dual-core processor and includes 2GB of DDR3 RAM.

"Dell is changing the shape of computing, with products that usher in new experiences and allow people to stay connected to each other and the content they love from almost anywhere," a Dell spokesperson said in a statement Tuesday.

"The new Inspiron Duo's dual purpose delivers one-touch access to great content and yet offers the functionality of a full keyboard for more intensive applications. We're excited to offer such an innovative and unique design to our customers," he added.

When in tablet mode, the device runs the Duo Stage software, a new user interface that provides access to a variety of digital content and applications. Dell is targeting younger people with the Inspiron Duo in tablet mode, which it says is suited for both entertainment consumption and productivity on-the-go.

This is the second hybrid mobile device from Dell this year. The manufacturer also introduced the 5-inch Dell Streak, which straddles the line between a smartphone and a tablet, and is preparing a 7-inch version for next year.

The Inspiron Duo's launch also comes on the heels of last week's announcement that Dell's communications solutions group will be discontinued by the end of this year, its responsibilities divided up among other Dell units, and its chief executive gone. The future of Dell's strategy for mobile, embedded devices is also in question.

Meanwhile, a number of other manufacturers have entered the tablet space dominated by Apple's iPad, as rumors circulate of an upcoming second-generation iPad from Apple further intensifying competition.

The starting price for the Dell Inspiron Duo is $549 in the US, or $649 with an optional dock.