Netbooks are seen as a portable PC category that can easily be sold through network carriers, as they can be featured with integrated 3G connectivity options, and are among the most portable computing systems on the market. On that note, US-based Sprint has just announced that it would be offering Dell's Atom-based Inspiron Mini 10 netbook with a 3G plan for a price tag of “just” U$199.99, down from the US$349.99 for the same system, but from Dell itself.

“Dell Inspiron Mini 10 is a fun way to easily access the speeds of Sprint’s network to catch-up on email, surf the Web and more,” said Kevin Packingham, senior vice president of Product Development, Sprint. “We are excited to add this great Dell product to our industry-leading portfolio of devices available from Sprint that work on America’s most dependable 3G network. It offers an affordable way to stay in touch and stay connected.”

Dell's Inspiron Mini 10 has been around for some time now, but for those of you that haven't yet taken interest in what this category has to offer, here's a quick update on what the netbook is capable of, spec-wise. The system is based on Intel's Z520 processor, which is clocked at 1.33GHz, coupled with 1GB of RAM and a 160GB hard drive. The 10.1-inch, 1024 x 600 display is powered by the system's integrated GMA500 graphics chip. On the connectivity side, the portable PC is featured with built-in WiFi b/g and the EVDO Rev, a wireless service from Sprint.

Price-wise, the laptop is believed to have already become available through select Sprint Stores for US$199.99, with a Sprint Mobile Broadband Connection plan that goes for US$59.99 per month and after a U$100 mail-in-rebate. Interestingly enough, the same system is also available through AT&T for just US$149.99 and a US$60 per month plan.