theregoesdave

Perhaps the rumors of Dell’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. After being laughed out of the carrier Exec’s offices with its first smartphone prototype, the flailing PC maker might actually be onto something with the Dell Mini 3i.

While details are scant (and in Chinese) at the moment, here’s what we do know:

1. The device has a touch screen and form factor much like the iPhone

2. It’s going to run Google’s Android mobile operating system

If the Dell Mini 3i makes it onto American soil, it may be a welcome alternative to the iPhone for those tired of the Apple App Store’s closed approach to applications. Disillusioned iPhone users such as Michael Arrington can have the iPhone form factor and their Google Voice too.

The problem is that the device only runs on obsolete 2G networks and such a blatant clone probably wouldn’t pass muster in the States. However, with dozens of Android phones slated to ship this year, smartphone users will have their choice of form factors and the ability to install any application their hearts desire.

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