Dell announced the return of its XPS 13 laptop line with a new model priced at $699, specifically designed to compete with Apple's MacBook Neo. The company is offering an introductory student discount bringing the price down to $599, though this promotional pricing will only be available until September for back-to-school purchases.

The new XPS 13 represents Dell's effort to re-enter the budget-friendly laptop market with a touch-screen equipped device. The laptop is scheduled to launch in July, marking Dell's follow-through on promises made at the Consumer Electronics Show earlier this year.

The announcement comes as multiple technology companies are positioning their products to compete directly with Apple's MacBook Neo. Industry observers note that various manufacturers are unveiling new laptop offerings aimed at challenging Apple's market position, though approaches to competing with the Neo vary among different companies.

Dell's XPS 13 launch coincides with Computex 2026, the major technology trade show currently taking place in Taipei. The event is featuring numerous product announcements across the computer industry, with companies navigating what some are calling "RAMageddon" - apparent challenges related to memory components affecting the broader technology sector.

Meanwhile, other companies are also making strategic moves in the competitive laptop market. AMD has announced plans to continue supporting older technology components for desktop PC users, while Alienware has revealed new OLED gaming monitor options at the same trade show.