Dell Streak Streets August 13 For $299Dell Streak Streets August 13 For $299

The Streak has been a long time coming for Dell. Announced seemingly eons ago, the Streak is more MID (mobile Internet device) than smartphone if you ask me. It offers an overwhelming five-inch display, which is more suited to watching movies than making phone calls.

Aside from the huge display, the Streak also packs a 5 megapixel camera with dual-LED flash, 7.2Mbps 3G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and a 1GHz SnapDragon processor under the hood running the show. It will support microSD cards up to 32GB, though Dell fails to mention if the Streak will ship with a memory card in the box. The Streak's spec page says it has "512 MB ROM + 512 MB SDRAM + 2 GB non-user accessible microSD for system and applications files only."

As long as the size doesn't bother you, the only real draw back with the Streak is that it ships with Android 1.6. Dell said that the device will be upgraded to Android 2.2 by the end of the year, but it doesn't offer a more specific time table.

Android 2.2 is a key upgrade for business users looking to have the best possible combination of features and security built into the device. Until the Streak gains Froyo, it might be a no-go for some enterprise users.

Dell will offer it to those who pre-registered for the device starting Thursday, August 12. General availability commences Friday, August 13. It will cost $299 with a new two-year contract and $549 if you want to pay full retail price up front. Dell said those who pre-registered will get free second-day shipping.

"The Dell Streak has found a way to fit your whole world in a 5-inch screen," said Ron Garriques, president, Dell Communication Solutions in a prepared statement. "Its unique size will help people discover new ways to enjoy the web, connect with friends, and navigate their lives."

AT&T hasn't said if the Streak will be available at its stores. The Streak can be ordered directly from Dell.com.