Novelty value
In a bid to re-invigorate the flagging mainstream consumer desktop segment, HP has redesigned four of its desktop lines and has updated its TouchSmart PC software suite. The tarted-up ranges are the Slimline, Pavilion, Elite and Compaq Presario lines.
"This new generation of desktop PCs features a fresh and modern design, unbeatable performance and tremendous value," said John Cook, VP of worldwide consumer PC marketing at HP. "And with matching monitors and accessories, it's easy to customize a desktop solution that combines performance with style."
New TouchSmart features include the Pandora Internet radio service, improved photo editing, and the ability to burn music CDs. You can also now stream content to the TouchSmart from a home server, and it plans to introduce the SimpleSave external hard drive series, which consists of ‘Portable' 320 and 500 GB models and ‘Desktop' 1 TB and 2 TB ones.
The desktops are all available in the US now and the external HDDs are expected by August. There don't seem to be any UK specific details available yet. Here are some prices.
- HP Pavilion Slimline s5000 series starts at $289
- HP Pavilion p6000 series starts at $269
- HP Pavilion Elite e9000 series starts at $599
- Compaq Presario CQ5000 series available for $379
- HP SimpleSave hard drives are starting at $119
Lastly, you can now buy software emulators of HP pocket calculators for your desktop. You can buy them here for £19.15.
