Dell Launches Crystal Display, Updates Inspiron

Just in time for CES, Dell has launched both its long-anticipated Dell Crystal monitor and a revamped 15.4-inch Inspiron Notebook.

The Round Rock, Tex.-based computer company announced on Thursday, ahead of the Jan. 7 kickoff of CES in Las Vegas, that the Dell Crystal, a 22-inch LCD display is now available and will be on display at the event.

With a sticker price of $1,199, the high-end display is a sleek, stylish display with a "floating" screen on a polished metal tripod base with four-millimeter ultra-clear tempered glass and audio speakers wired into the frame along with a 2.0 megapixel Webcam with microphone.

The display features 1680 x 1059 native resolution, Dell's TrueColor technology with 98 percent color gamut, 2ms typical response time (gray to gray) and a 2000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. The Dell Crystal also has HD connectivity with DVI/NDMI with HDCP, sub-woofer out capabilities and USB connectivity.

"The Dell Crystal is a direct result of listening to customers and applying that inspiration to create strikingly original products that are beautifully functional," said Steve Gluskoter, director, displays product marketing, in a statement.

Thursday also brought the launch of a slimmer version of Dell's six-month old Inspiron 1520 product, the Inspiron 1525. The 15.4-inch 1525 model is 25 percent smaller and about half a pound lighter than its predecessor. The revamped notebook is available in four customized patters in addition to eight colors.

On the technology end, the notebook has Dell's MediaDirect technology, which gives users one-touch access to digital media and select Microsoft Office software and wireless functionality, including Bluetooth. Users can also add built-in 2.0 megapixel webcams, microphones and headphones and a remote control.

Pricing for the Inspiron 1525 starts at $499.