Envy x2 Looks Like a Normal Notebook-but It’s Not

HP’s new Envy x2 is an ultrathin hybrid PC with the advantages of two devices. As a notebook that doubles as a tablet, the Envy x2 has a detachable screen that becomes a full tablet when separated from the keyboard via a seamless magnetic latch. If you use the x2 as a laptop, you have a choice of using a traditional trackpad or a touch screen. Users no longer have to carry more than one device to perform special tasks.

When you click a small magnetic latch just above the keyboard, it releases an 11.6-inch screen that turns the unit into an independent Windows 8 tablet. In tablet or laptop mode, it can be used to watch video, run Windows tablet apps or regular Windows desktop software, such as Microsoft Office.

The Envy x2 features a brushed aluminum finish and weighs 3.1 pounds as a unit. When detached from the combined unit, the tablet portion weighs just 1.5 pounds. It features an HD webcam on the front and an 8-megapixel camera on the back to capture high-quality photos and video. The HP Envy x2 is expected to be available in the United States for the holidays. Pricing will be available at a later date, HP said.

The x2 also features the high-performance Beats Audio system and a new HP Connected Photo application that synchronizes photos across multiple devices and offers basic editing options and instant-sharing capabilities for social networks. Lastly, the x2 includes near-field communication (NFC) to enable users to share content—including photos, contacts and URLs—with a simple tap.

HP Envy 20 and 23 TouchSmart PCs (pictured: Envy 20) have a 20- and 23-inch diagonal HD displays. They come equipped with the latest Intel processors, optional ExpressCache and solid-state drives, and up to 3TB of storage for photos, videos and music. The ExpressCache SSD option provides users with fast boot-up and application start times. They become available in the United States in October at starting prices of $799 and $999.

HP’s newest ProBook PCs, the 4445s, 4446s and 4545s, are equipped with all-new 2012 AMD A-Series accelerated processors and VISION Pro for high performance requirements. AMD Enduro Technology—formerly known as AMD Dynamic Switchable Graphics—uses discrete graphics to create accurate visuals when plugged in and allows the PC to automatically switch to battery-saving mode by powering down the discrete GPU when unplugged, all while still delivering great performance on every-day business applications. These HP ProBook s-series notebook PCs also provide the option for AMD Radeon Dual Graphics for high-end 3D rendering processing performance. The ProBook 4445s, 4446s and 4545s Notebook PCs start at $499.

HP’s SpectreONE features an Nvidia 1GB graphics card, optional ExpressCache and optional SSD. It also delivers connectivity with HP’s TouchZone near-field communication technology and a full array of ports, including two USB 2.0 ports, two USB 3.0 ports, HDMI-in and a Beats Audio headphones jack. With HP’s TouchZone NFC technology, users simply tap smartphone or NFC tags on the base of the HP SpectreONE to instantly transfer content or login to the PC. The HP SpectreONE will be available in the United States in November at a starting price of $1,299.

HP Pavilion 20 is a powerful non-touch AiO PC built for budget-conscious consumers. It features a large 20-inch diagonal HD display and joins the recently announced HP Pavilion 23 AiO PC. It includes features such as HP TrueVision HD webcam, Connected Remote, Connected Photo and Connected Music. The Pavilion 20 will be available in the United States in October with a starting price of $449.

Featuring a 15.6-inch diagonal multitouch Radiance Full HD display with IPS technology, the HP SpectreXT TouchSmart Ultrabook goes beyond keyboard and mouse with an optimized touch experience. Measuring 17.9mm thick and weighing 4.77 pounds, this premium Ultrabook has an all-metal design featuring edge-to-edge glass, a soft-touch base for comfort and grip, a glass touchpad and tilted speakers with Beats Audio for optimal sound. The SpectreXT is HP’s first notebook with Intel Thunderbolt connectivity for fast transfer of music, movies and data to external devices. USB Boost charges devices via USB ports while the Ultrabook is on or off. It also has the latest Intel Core processors, an mSATA solid-state drive with Intel Rapid Start and a full array of ports, including Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 and HDMI. It will become available in December and retail for $1,399.

The HP Compaq Pro 6305 Desktop PC has a predictable life cycle of up to 15 months. Powered by AMD’s latest APU A10, A8, A6 and A4 processors, the HP Compaq Pro 6305 also includes significant graphics improvement for intensive business applications. The 6305 offers an AMD Accelerated File Converter that enables more efficient web browsing for smooth webcast videos, training and videoconferencing. The Compaq Pro 6305 starts at $539 and will be available worldwide on Oct. 8.