Later this month Dell will begin shipping a new version of the XPS 13 ultrabook with Windows 8 and Intel Ivy Bridge processors. Prices still start at $999.99, but instead of Windows 7 and a 2nd-generation Intel Core i CPU (Sandy Bridge), you’ll now get Microsoft’s latest, and a 3rd-generation Core processor (Ivy Bridge).
The base model features an Intel Core i5-3317U processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 128GB solid state disk. It’s available for pre-order now, and expected to ship in late October.
Dell also offers a $1200 model with an Intel Core i7-3517U CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage.
Both models feature 13.3 inch, 1366 x 768 pixel displays and Intel HD 4000 graphics. They have 802.11a/g/n WiFi, Bluetooth 3.0, Intel Wireless Display support, and a mini DisplayPort.
The biggest changes from the model that launched earlier this year are the processor and operating system. But Dell has also moved from one USB 3.0 port and two USB 2.0 port to two USB 3.0 ports.
The new Dell XPS 13 ultrabooks have 47 Whr batteries for up to nearly 9 hours of battery life. They measure 12.4″ x 8.1″ x 0.7″ and weigh about 3 pounds and the cases are built from aluminum, carbon fiber, and magnesium.
If Windows 8 isn’t your thing, Dell also plans to sell the XPS 13 with Ubuntu Linux this fall… but it’s not yet clear if the company will be offering the Project Sputnik ultrabook with this year’s Ivy Bridge CPU or last year’s Sandy Bridge processor.