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Dell phasing out XPS line of computers?

It looks like Dell's high-end computer line may be seeing its last days as the Wall Street Journal is reporting that starting next month, Dell will be discontinuing four of its XPS PCs in order to concentrate on their Alienware computers. Dell purchased Alienware in 2006 in its effort to appeal to the hardcore PC gamer.

Dell also makes XPS laptops as well, but there is no word as to the plans Dell has for this popular line of computers.

Alienware CEO, Nelson Gonzalez, said at the time of the takeover by Dell last year, "We believe that this acquisition will offer our customers the best of both worlds an Alienware that takes advantage of the world-class business practices and operational efficiencies that have made Dell one of the most respected companies in the world, while preserving the DNA of the Alienware brand and product strategy portfolio."

The two companies gained an advantage from each other in the deal--for Dell, the image of Alienware as a cutting edge PC product line and for Alienware, the much needed infrastructure of Dell's distribution and parts organization. With Alienware assuming the role of Dell's high profile PC desktop line of computers, the phasing out of Dell's XPS series is evidently in motion.

UPDATE: Dell took issue with the Wall Street Journal report and says it will firmly support the XPS line.

"Dell XPS and Alienware are both great brands...and both will live on...But we are going to expand our focus on Alienware. We are going to invest like crazy in product development, design, and engineering to propel Alienware as the premier gaming brand in the future."XPS gaming systems will remain an important part of our gaming product portfolio. We don't plan an early phase-out of these systems, as the WSJ incorrectly stated, and in fact will continue to refresh them to keep them on the front edge of gaming."

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