Sprint Releases Its First Netbook for $200

Joining other telecom companies in the netbook space, Sprint is offering its first netbook starting today. And they’re pulling out all the meaningless PR speak to celebrate the occasion. The Dell Inspiron Mini 10 is the first netbook on “ America’s most dependable 3G network” and brings the mobile user “blazing-fast Internet access” in a “portable package that can easily fit in a purse, backpack or briefcase”. Helping to deliver that blazing-fast speed, the new Sprint offering has embedded EV-DO Rev enabling users to take advantage of “robust applications and service” such as VoIP and music on-demand. The new computer is available at select  Sprint stores for $199.99. Of course, that price is after the mandatory $100 mail-in and two-year lockdown on the Sprint network.

As far as specs, the Mini 10 features an Intel Atom Z520, 160 GB hard drive, Microsoft Windows Home XP SP3 Edition, a 1.3 MP webcam, Integrated Intel 500 Media Accelerator Graphic, a 5-in-1 media reader, Bluetooth and WiFi 802.11g. Screen space comes courtesy of a 10.1-inch LED with 1024 x 600 resolution.

Those looking to buy into the low $200 retail price will need to commit to Sprint’s Mobile Broadband Connection Plan which delivers up to 5GB of data for $60 a month–the same monthly price as the AT&T agreement on Nokia’s recently-released netbook (though the Sprint retail price is $100 lower). I’m still not sold on the idea of two-year service agreements for netbooks, but at least the competition is heating up.

For more of Sprint tooting its own horn in unabated marketing babble, check out its press release.