San Francisco - Dell on Wednesday said it has begun selling personal computers designed specifically for fast-growing or emerging markets in 20 countries outside the U.S.
Dell joins rivals Hewlett-Packard Co. (HPQ), Lenovo Group Ltd. (LNVGY) and other top computer sellers creating products for consumers and businesses located in China, Indonesia and other countries whose economies are much healthier than the US economy.
Dell especially should benefit from sales outside the US. Unlike its main rival Hewlett-Packard, a relatively large percentage of Dell's sales come from inside the U.S.
"What Dell is doing here makes sense for them given their current predicament," said IDC analyst Richard Shim. "They're looking for growth opportunities, and one of their weaknesses is their lack of presence in markets outside the US."
The two new Dell Vostro notebook computers introduced Wednesday start at $480, while Dell's two new desktop PCs will start at $440.
Dell is already selling one of its new computers in 13 countries. It plans to have all four of the new products available in the 20 countries its targeting by mid-October.
- Dow Jones