Dell has taken the wraps off its XPS 13 Plus mobile PC, the new name of its popular business laptop. But it’s not just the brand that is new. A decade after launching the XPS 13, Dell has redesigned it with more power, improved usability and a modern look.

The company launched the XPS 13 Plus during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

Many new Dell features debuted on XPS laptops before making their way onto the company’s other mobile computing products. Most notably, the ultrathin bezels and compact design have made the XPS distinct from Dell’s other laptops. Making the XPS equally attractive is that Dell equips these laptops with the latest processors, memory options and storage capacity.

Pund-IT’s Charles King

“The XPS 13 fundamentally altered the company’s reputation for product design and aesthetics,” noted Pund-IT principal analyst Charles King. “The XPS 13 wasn’t just a new laptop line — it was a signpost indicating Dell Technologies’ future direction. Since then, next-gen XPS 13 solutions have steadily highlighted new features and technologies developed by Dell and strategic partners.”

Dell’s XPS 13 has become popular among executives and business users. But Dell is seeking to broaden the appeal of XPS with younger customers with the new XPS 13 Plus design. Company officials say they are targeting Gen Z customers (between the ages of 10 and 25).

“The XPS 13 [Plus] represents the next step in a journey to expand what people can experience and create in our XPS products,” said Nicholas DiLoreto, senior manager for industrial design at Dell.

Focus on Usability

The XPS 13 Plus will have a 13.4-inch display with a 16×10 aspect ratio. Three screen options will include the base FHD+ (1920 x 1200), a 3.5K (3456 x 2160) InfinityEdge OLED touch display or a 4K UHD+ (3840×2400).

A zero-lattice keyboard allows for larger keys that stretch to the edge of the laptop. Instead of function keys in the top row, it has a capacitive touch veneer that displays the functions. Users can toggle between functions displayed in that top row. Also on the keyboard is a glass touchpad with haptics.

Performance and Power

The XPS 13 Plus is Dell’s first XPS laptop with Intel’s new 12th Gen Intel Core processor. The addition of enlarged dual fans that Dell says provide a 55% improvement in airflow, allows for a 28W processor. The prior versions only supported 15W.

Dell said it was able to boost the power while still maintaining the XPS 13’s basic specs. The XPS 13 Plus is 0.60-inches thick, 11.6-inches wide and 7.8-inches deep, and weighs 2.73 lb.

The XPS 13 Plus also marks Dell’s introduction of a new aluminum processed chassis with hydropower, reducing its carbon makeup. The device will ship in new packaging consisting of 100% recycled or renewable content.

Scheduled to ship this spring, expect prices to start at $1,200. The XPS 13 Plus will be available with Windows 11 or a developer edition that runs Ubuntu 20.04.

UltraSharp 32 4K Video Conferencing Monitor

Dell is also debuting a new video conferencing monitor during CES. (Like most major companies, Dell officials are participating in CES virtually this year).

The new Dell UltraSharp 32 4K Video Conferencing Monitor is designed with an IPS Black panel and is certified for Microsoft Teams. Integrated into the display is Dell’s new UltraSharp Webcam, echo-canceling dual array microphones and 14W speakers.

Dell hasn’t disclosed pricing for the new display, which is scheduled to become available March 29.