Las Vegas, Nevada — Dell is staging a comeback at this year’s CES, unveiling a renewed commitment to its XPS product line, which had been sidelined last year in a controversial rebranding effort. The tech giant previously scrapped its esteemed PC brands, including the popular XPS range, in an attempt to streamline its offerings. However, this decision backfired, as reflected in a significant drop in market share over the past year.
In a bid to rectify earlier missteps, Dell introduced the new XPS 14 and XPS 16 laptops, featuring a practical redesign that addresses prior customer concerns. The latest models replace the previously used capacitive buttons with a traditional function row, enhancing accessibility and usability. Notably, the trackpad design has also improved, with a new light border that aids users in locating its edges despite its flush appearance.
The company’s decision to prominently showcase the XPS logo on these new devices marks a symbolic restoration of the brand’s identity. This shift is a significant departure from the previous approach, illustrating a newfound humility and a willingness to listen to user feedback.
Moreover, the redesign has resulted in lighter and thinner models. The XPS 14 now weighs approximately three pounds—half a pound lighter than its predecessor—while the XPS 16 tips the scales at 3.6 pounds, a full pound reduction. The aesthetic of the new laptops is reminiscent of Microsoft’s Surface Laptop, which could appeal to consumers favoring a more refined design.
Both notebooks are powered by Intel’s latest Panther Lake Core Ultra Series 3 chips and feature OLED display options that promise vibrant visuals. This technical upgrade aims to cater to a diverse audience, from casual users to professionals seeking premium performance.
In addition to the immediate launches, Dell has also hinted at the upcoming release of a new XPS 13 later this year. This future model is expected to be the thinnest and lightest yet, along with a pricing strategy designed to be more budget-friendly than previous iterations.
The XPS 14 will start at $1,650, while the XPS 16 will be available from $1,850, both set for release on January 6. As Dell moves forward with its revitalized strategy, it aims to re-establish itself as a strong contender in the competitive PC market.