The Dell XPS 13 is thinner, and talks to your phone. Here’s how it happened.

By Matthew S. Smith Published January 19, 2018

Dell went big at CES 2018, announcing a new version of its XPS 13, as well as its first XPS 15 2-in-1. Both are shaping up to be excellent laptops, and they achieve the goal of combining performance with portability through use of advanced design and materials, including Gore fabric. We spoke with Dell’s Justin Lyles, vice president of consumer design, who guided us through the company’s decision-making process. That includes the release of a white chassis that is not only a different color, but also built from different materials than the black, carbon-fiber model.

New hardware was definitely the focus for Dell at this year’s show, but it wasn’t the company’s only new product or feature. It also wants to improve how your computer works alongside your phone. To do that, it introduced Dell Mobile Connect, an application that can display contacts and apps from your Android or iOS device. It can even receive text messages or phone calls from your device, routing them through the laptop’s microphone.

Recommended Videos

It’s a new level of integration for a Windows PC, one that came as a surprise. Oren Inditzky, Dell’s director of product management for software innovation, walked us through how the feature works, and explained the company’s thought process when putting it together.

Topics

Matthew S. Smith

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Matthew S. Smith is the former Lead Editor, Reviews at Digital Trends. He previously guided the Products Team, which dives…

Computing

How the new Dell XPS 13 spectacularly undercuts the MacBook Air

The side of the Dell XPS 13 on a table.

The 2022 Dell XPS 13 marks a sharp turn in the history of this iconic laptop. With the XPS 13 Plus making its debut in the lineup, Dell has pivoted the standard XPS 13 into an extremely value-based offering.

But Dell isn't going after Windows rivals with this move -- it's aim seems focused on undercutting the M1 MacBook Air. The crazy thing? Dell just may have pulled it off.

Computing

The redesigned new Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 officially launches on August 25

The new Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 sitting on a wooden table.

The Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 will be available soon, on August 25. The new model is reminiscent of Microsoft's Surface Pro series with its folio design and touch stylus (sold separately).

However, don't dismiss the laptop as a rip-off. In classic XPS fashion, it's an incredibly refined, sleek, and powerful device that looks to appeal to those in the premium laptop market.

Computing

Dell XPS 13 Plus buying guide: How to configure before you buy

The side of the keyboard on the Dell XPS 13 Plus.

There’s no denying that the Dell XPS 13 Plus is one of the most aesthetically beautiful laptops on the market today. The keyboard matches the XPS’ iconic infinity display by running right up to the edges of the chassis. The screen is gorgeous, even on the base model. This machine is a head-turner.

If you’ve decided to buy yourself an XPS 13 Plus, right now, you’ll need to get it directly from Dell.com. You’ll be greeted with an array of options, many of which may leave you scratching your head. Which processor do you need? What screen is better? What on earth is Windows 11 Pro? Here's everything you need to know before buying a new XPS 13 Plus.