Dell Entering the Low-Cost Subnotebook Market

In the wake of the runaway success of the Asus Eee PC, other companies are jumping on board with their own subnotebooks. The latest of these is reportedly Dell, who is expected to enter this market in the next month or so.

Citing an unnamed official at Compal Electronics in Taiwan, the Wall Street Journal says Dell is planning to launch a low-cost 8.9-inch mini-notebook, possible as early as June. This device, which reportedly will be produced by Compal, will start at $400.

A spokesperson from Dell has confirmed that his company intends to release a subnotebook, though not any of the other details from the WSJ's source.

If Dell follows the pattern of its competitors, this device will be available in both Microsoft Windows and Linux versions.

An Expanding Market

Since it debuted last year, the Asus Eee PC has been selling well. So well, in fact, that company will soon follow up its original model with a 7-inch display with one that will have a 9-inch display.  In addition, a second generation Eee PC will debut soon with a touchscreen.

But the Eee PC has a growing number of competitors. In addition to Dell, HP recently unveiled the HP 2133 Mini-Note, and Acer supposedly has its own subnotebook in the wings.

Related Articles:

• HP 2133 Mini-Note Review
• Acer Reportedly Prepping Less Expensive Eee PC Competitor
• Asus Eee PC 4G Windows Review