Speculation is mounting that Google is plotting the launch of an Android-based mobile phone in partnership with computer maker Dell. According to some unnamed “senior industry sources,” cited by Marketing Week, the two companies will reveal their plans at next month’s 3GSM telecoms conference in Barcelona.

Dell has tried handhelds before with its now defunct Axim series and currently sells smartphones from third party vendors such as Nokia, so the idea doesn’t seem too farfetched – especially after last year Dell brought in former Motorola staffer Ron Garriques to spearhead its consumer group. We already know that HTC, Motorola, Samsung, and other manufacturers are onboard with the Open Handset Alliance, but it is big news to hear that Dell may be joining them. We will have to wait until next month to learn the truth about this rumor.