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HP has updated its line of Stream notebook computers by announcing three new models that marry the concept of a cloud-based Chromebook with a machine that instead runs the Windows 10 Home operating system.
The latest cloud-based machines include an updated 11.6-inch HP Stream 11, an 11.6-inch HP Stream x360 Convertible (pictured) with a 360-degree rear hinge for placement in a wide variety of positions, and a 14-inch Stream 14, according to an Aug. 10 announcement by the company.
The Stream series, which debuted for the 2014 year-end holiday season, introduced HP’s own version of Chromebooks, which allow users to do their work with Web-based applications rather than with software that is stored on the machines.
The latest versions include new dual-antenna 802.11 ac 2×2 WiFi for improved wireless connectivity, longer battery life, USB 3.0 ports, lighter weight and thinner dimensions, according to HP.
“We’ve enjoyed positive feedback about the HP Stream family, which for many consumers is exactly what they need to access content and services in the cloud from wherever they are,” Kevin Frost, vice president and general manager of HP’s consumer personal systems division, said in a statement. “We’ve continued to raise the bar on this popular cloud-based notebook to make it even more portable, more attractive and affordable for customers.”
The HP Stream 11
The new Stream 11 features an 11.6-inch HD SVA anti-glare WLED-backlit display (1366 by 768 resolution), an Intel Celeron N3060 1.6GHz dual-core processor, 4GB of DDR3L SDRAM memory, an Intel HD Graphics 400 chip and 32GB of on-board eMMC storage. The machine also features a front-facing VGA Webcam with an integrated digital microphone, a microSD card reader, Bluetooth connectivity and DTS Studio Sound with dual speakers.
It also includes a USB 2.0 port, an HDMI port and a lithium-ion battery. It measures 11.8 inches in width, 8.10 inches in height and 0.71 inches in thickness. It weighs 2.57 pounds and promises battery life of more than 10 hours. The Stream 11 includes a one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365 Personal, 1TB of Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage and a year of DropBox cloud storage up to 25GB.
The Stream 11 will be available on Aug. 24 through HP.com starting at $199.
The HP Stream x360 Convertible
The new Stream x360 Convertible has many of the features as the Stream 11, including an 11.6-inch HD SVA anti-glare WLED-backlit display (1366 by 768 resolution), an Intel Celeron N3060 1.6GHz dual-core processor, 4GB of DDR3L SDRAM memory, an Intel HD Graphics 400 chip and 32GB of on-board eMMC storage. The machine also features a front-facing VGA Webcam with an integrated digital microphone, a multi-format digital card reader, Bluetooth connectivity and DTS Studio Sound with dual speakers.
The x360 is also available with an optional touch-screen HD display.
It also includes a USB 2.0 port, an HDMI port and a lithium-ion prismatic battery. It measures 12.5 inches in width, 8.19 inches in height and 0.78 inches in thickness. It weighs 2.98 pounds and promises battery life of more than 10 hours. The Stream x360 also includes a one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365 Personal, 1TB of Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage and a year of DropBox cloud storage up to 25GB.
The Stream x360 Convertible will be available in select regions in September starting at $249, which is $50 less than the earlier model.
The HP Stream 14
The Stream 14 features a larger 14-inch HD SVA Brightview WLED-backlit display (1366 by 768 resolution), as well as the same Intel Celeron N3060 1.6GHz dual-core processor, 4GB of DDR3L SDRAM memory, Intel HD Graphics 400 chip and 32GB of on-board eMMC storage of the other two models. Battery life for the Stream 14 is expected to be up to about 10 hours and 45 minutes.
The Stream 14 also features a front-facing VGA Webcam with an integrated digital microphone, a multi-format digital card reader, Bluetooth connectivity and DTS Studio Sound with dual speakers.
Also included is a USB 2.0 port, an HDMI port and a lithium-ion prismatic battery. It measures 13.27 inches in width, 8.9 inches in height and 0.7 inches in thickness. It weighs 3.17 pounds and promises battery life of up to 10 hours and 45 minutes. The Stream x360 also includes a one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365 Personal, 1TB of Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage and a year of DropBox cloud storage up to 25GB.
The HP Stream 14 will be available Sept. 7 at HP.com starting at $219.
The Stream models are available in Aqua Blue, Snowy White or Violet Purple colors, while the Stream x360 can also be purchased in Jet Black.