Dell announces new Windows 8 lineup for businesses

Dell rolled out its new lineup of business-focused Windows 8 computers Wednesday, announcing that it would add two portable Latitude devices and a desktop OptiPlex to its offerings once the new Microsoft operating system is released.

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While the announcement provided few technical details, Dell did say that the OptiPlex 9010 is a 23-inch all-in-one desktop, and highlighted its incorporation of touchscreen technology and flexible form factor as its chief selling points. The announcement comes less than 10 days after rival HP announced a set of four new all-in-ones designed for use with Windows 8.

Dell's new enterprise tablet is a 10-inch Latitude designed, the company said, with security and compatibility in mind. The Latitude 10 features a smartcard reader, fingerprint sensor and floor-to-ceiling encryption, along with cross compatibility with existing management consoles and productivity apps.

Finally, the Latitude 6430u ultrabook is a dedicated road warrior's machine, packing enough battery power for "all-day productivity," according to Dell, into a package 16% lighter and 33% thinner than the current-generation 14-inch Latitude notebook. The company also claims that the device is designed to meet the U.S. military's MIL-STD-810G durability standards, which would make it tougher than the average ultra-portable. (It should be noted that Dell has not claimed that the Latitude 6430u has actually been tested to this standard, however.)

All three devices will be made available when Windows 8 is officially launched, said Dell, adding that information on pricing and regional sales would be released "when available." Microsoft recently confirmed that Windows 8 would see a general release Oct. 25.

Email Jon Gold at jgold@nww.com and follow him on Twitter at @NWWJonGold.

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