It was originally thought to be a mistake when a predicted smartphone was not present at the Mobile World Congress. Now, it is believed that Dell rethought the project due to “lack of carrier interest.”

Senior Analyst Shaw Wu noted recently in a research note that plans have not been totally taken off the radar for Dell. The project however is in line for some serious redesign and assistance from Investment Firm, Kaufman Bros. Prototypes had already been created with both Android and Windows Mobile as the operating systems. Although the plans are out there, reactions have been “hostile” Wu claims due to lack of originality. Hardware is too similar to HTC, LG and Nokia, no carrier has incentive to choose Dell over other brands and other models like the Palm Pre are so competitive.

Aims for Dell it seems, is to create a distinctive design with possible integration of vertical hardware and software in vein of Apple’s iPhone and RIM’s BlackBerry. Wu believes strongly that entering the smartphone business will be risky although through a successful launch, this may give Dell the edge it is looking for. Wu writes; “So far, PC peers Acer, Asustek, and Lenovo have beefed up their smart phone offerings with the success of the iPhone as likely inspiration.” I am curious of the offerings from Dell for a smartphone. Cannot argue really, I’m writing this on a Dell Laptop…

[via Electronista]