Sometimes the best business decision is admitting when you've made a mistake and making it right. That's exactly what Dell Technologies has done by bringing back its beloved XPS laptop line, much to the delight of technology enthusiasts and everyday consumers alike.

After discontinuing the XPS brand in January 2025 in favor of a new naming system, Dell announced this week that it's reviving the iconic laptop series with new 14-inch and 16-inch models. "It was obvious we needed to change," said Jeff Clarke, Dell's vice chairman and COO, demonstrating the kind of corporate humility that customers appreciate.

The return of XPS represents more than just a brand name—it's a return to what makes laptops truly great. For years, XPS laptops earned their reputation as one of the easiest recommendations for anyone seeking an ultralight, high-performing computer. The series was known for sleek designs, modern features, and excellent value, building trust with generations of users.

What makes this comeback even more exciting is that Dell isn't just reviving the name—they're improving the product based on user feedback. The company is moving away from some controversial design choices introduced in 2022, including a capacitive-touch function row and borderless touchpad that, while innovative, made many users uncomfortable.

The new XPS 14 and XPS 16 models feature the return of physical function keys, which many users prefer for their tactile reliability. The haptic touchpad now includes visible left and right borders for better usability. Dell is even planning to release a more affordable XPS 13 later this year with a traditional chiclet keyboard, making the lineup accessible to more budget-conscious buyers.

Perhaps most refreshingly, Dell's messaging around these new laptops focuses on what people actually care about: lightweight construction, long battery life, beautiful displays, and solid performance. While the company acknowledges AI capabilities as part of the package, they're wisely emphasizing the fundamentals that make a great daily-use computer.

"We're getting back to our roots with a renewed focus on consumer and gaming," Clarke shared in the announcement. This customer-centric approach is exactly what the technology industry needs more of—companies that listen and respond to what people genuinely want rather than pushing features that serve marketing departments more than users.

The new XPS 14 starts at $2,049, with the XPS 16 beginning at $2,200. Dell has promised additional configurations launching in February that will come in "well under $2,000," making these premium machines more accessible to a broader range of customers.

This story showcases something wonderful about the relationship between companies and consumers: when people speak up, change is possible. Dell's willingness to reverse course and restore a trusted brand demonstrates that customer voices matter and that companies can choose people over pride. It's a win for consumers who get back a laptop line they trusted, and a win for Dell as they rebuild goodwill with their customer base.