Vodafone has nabbed an agreement with Dell Inc. to become the exclusive vendor for its first netbook, the Inspiron Mini 9, which will be sold via Vodafone stores and online, and directly from Dell in the European markets.

The newest offering from the Dell family, the Inspiron Mini 9, features a built-in mobile broadband from Vodafone, delivering instant internet connectivity anywhere with no need for an additional modem.

For consumers and professionals consistently on the go, this device will enable them to connect anytime, anywhere, whether on the road or on-the-go, says the tie-up. Users can chat with friends or enjoy their favorite online videos and music.

The Inspiron Mini 9 netbook will feature a glossy 8.9 inch LED screen with a resolution of 1,240 x 600 and 1GB of RAM. It will also offer a full version of Windows XP, up to 16 GB solid state drive, three USB ports, Ethernet, audio line in and out, WiFi, Bluetooth, media card reader and an integrated 1.3 megapixel Webcam.

The deal means that Vodafone is the latest mobile operator to enter into the PC retail market with firms like T-Mobile, Orange and 3 already involved in similar deals.