Dell Inspiron Mini 9 Netbook on Vodafone Comments

We can buy 3G/GSM phones that can surf the Interent and make normal calls these days. But can we buy netbooks/notebooks that do the same thing i.e. work as normal phones (not via Skype, Net2Phone, CallServe etc) as well as the Internet Surfing?
This WOULD be the netbook to rival all others.
I am surprised Vodaphone / Dell didn't try this.
A netbook with small BlueTooth ear/mic piece would be a Christmas stocking filler for sure.
Perhaps companies do have this but are waiting for the suitable 'up-grade' time to come along.

I would like to say thanks for the very useful review of this netbook/contract deal. I have just been down to my local vodafone shop and signed up for the £25/m contract with 1gb download allowance. Its such a well made netbook, cute yet sophisticated in apperance. This is true mobile web browing, no more strugling viewing web pages on a mobile phone screen. So far speeds have been excelent with most pages loading in 2-3 seconds or less. I would recommend this netbook, especially with the mobile internet contract to get the most use out of it.

I think Dell Inspiron Mini 9 must be better than EEEPC, due to it support 3.5G, it's essential element for netbook and even notebook.

I'm not convinced as to the value of these contracts, yet - the networks should be offering far greater subsidy than they are. I personally think it'd be better to buy the Dell separately and then get mobile broadband on terms that suit you.

Commercial details aside, it's a fantastic combination technically. Vodafone stores should have them on display for people to play with (take note Vodafone Canterbury... your age-old demo handsets aren't fooling anybody) and should be pushing them aggressively.

Looks like the netbook I've been waiting for except the battery life is a deal breaker. 1.5 - 2.0 hrs with the HSDPA enabled is frankly dreadful. A netbook that is light and practical and easy to carry with you anywhere .... as long as its no more than 2hrs away from the mains just doesnt cut it. These things should have 5hrs battery life minimum. I want one with enough juice so I can use it on the road all day without fear of a flat battery.

These days its possible to use phone (3G and Smartphones) to make GSM calls, GPS and Internet surf.
Are there netbook PC computers that can do the same thing. i.e. you put the 3G sim card in it and it can be your GSM phone, GPS and surf unit all in one. Like a smart phone (only bigger)
How difficult is it to change the situation around?
I am looking at GSM phones lines now, not Skype. net2Phone/ CallServe etc

I've been using mine for a couple of months now, I get a little over 3 hours use with the standard battery and reasonable use of the 3g connection. I also have the extended battery which I haven't managed to run out yet (well over five hours and I'd guess about seven is the limit). I really like it, I travel a lot and the small size and small mains adapter are perfect for my needs.

I've upgraded the memory to 2 gig ram which really helped and the SSD to 32 gig which has made it much more usable for a full blown MS Office 2007 suite including groove which I need when I'm travelling.

The HSDPA adapter also has a built in GPS receiver that isn't mentioned in any of the documentation. This is rather odd as I'd have thought this was a real selling point.

I need something to use purely for internet browsing (basically facebook and email), storing music and storing photos. These mini notebooks appear to be ideal. Are they?!

I was looking at the Dell version because I have used Dell before and been satisfied with the product. Any advice would be appreciated.

It likes that ASUS Eee PC, enough for internet browsing (basically facebook and email), storing music and storing photos.
If need a replacement Dell Inspiron Mini 9 battery, look here for more details:
http://www.laptopbatteryweb.com/dell-inspiron-mini-9.htm

Battery Brand :Dell
P/N# :Inspiron Mini 9
Battery Type :Li-ion
Voltage :14.8V
Capacity :4400 mAh
Color :Black