Though Dell has already launched a promoting the product, the company has been suspiciously quiet about it, except for saying it is "Coming Soon" on the Web site. A Dell executive was when questioned recently by New York Times reporter Ashlee Vance about plans around a MacBook-Air like laptop.

Dell also leaked out accessories available for a product called Adamo Thirteen, which could indicate a laptop with a 13-inch screen, taking into account Dell's product naming conventions. The company already offers the Inspiron Mini 9, which has a 9-inch screen, and Inspiron Mini 12, which has a 12-inch screen.

Impressive designs and a loyal customer base allows Apple to charge a premium for its products, but Dell could make ultraportable laptops more affordable, said Charles King, an analyst at Pund-IT.

"There would be a large and enthusiastic audience for competitively priced luxury goods -- particularly with the economy in the doldrums," King said.