HP’s next-generation PCs at CES 2018

HP used CES 2017 to unveil the long-anticipated 15.6” Spectre x360 – arguably the world’s first and fastest Windows 10 convertible with an option of an 8th generation Intel Core i7-8705G processor and Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics as well as a range of Intel Core processors and NVIDIA graphics.

Chris Price, Director, Personal Systems, HP South Pacific, said, “Every aspect of the PC experience is being reinvented, and HP is at the forefront. We are fundamentally reshaping the way the world connects and creates. Our CES 2018 line-up showcases what’s possible when you combine the voice of the customer with world-class design and engineering capabilities. Whether it’s the world’s most powerful convertible and the incredible versatility of our ENVY x2 Always-Connected PC, or our cutting-edge suite of OMEN gaming hardware and software, HP technology is changing the game.”

HP also showed its new Envy x2, 2-in-1 tablet and Omen Game Stream, cloud-connected gaming experience with their OMEN gaming PC doing all the heavy lifting by acting as a cloud gaming server.

15.6” Spectre x360 (US site)

It builds on the enormous success of the 13.3” version, and it manages to pack everything into a svelte 19.45mm chassis weighing just over 2kg.

The 4K, 3840 x 2160 touch screen and graphics capability are ideal for CAD, 3D rendering, Photo editing, 4K video editing, and Windows Ink creative design.

Sound comes from four B&O tuned speakers and HP’s Audio Boost, and initial specifications show 89dB volume – that is great for presentations.

It has two USB-C Thunderbolt 3 ports, one HDMI 2.0 port, USB-A 3.1, 3.5mm audio, SD card reader, dual 4K monitor support (requires dock), fingerprint reader, up to 16GB LPDDR3 RAM, up to 2TB SSD, and a 13.5-hour battery life, fast charge (0-90% in 90 minutes).

It is available in Dark Ash Silver with Copper Luxe accents. HP pen is an optional extra. Prices start at A$3,499 for the base version.

HP Envy x2 (US site)

This is a serious Microsoft Surface Pro challenger that manages to outdo its rival with up to 17 hours battery life, fast charging, LTE options, 1920 x 1280 screen, one of the best keyboards, two USB-C ports and B&O tuned audio.

HP ENVY x2 starting price is $1,899. Mobile LTE carriers will be disclosed closer to product availability.

OMEN Game Stream

Omen Game Stream allows gamers to play top AAA games anytime and anywhere by leveraging the power and performance of their OMEN PC on any Windows 10 device with a high-speed internet connection.

Preliminary details include:

  • Connected cloud gaming experience: Offered within the OMEN Command Centre, gamers can now take their OMEN gaming experience with them on-the-go with their OMEN gaming PC doing all the heavy lifting by acting as a cloud gaming server.
  • Push gaming boundaries: Using any Windows 10 device, gamers can connect to their OMEN PC and play games that are well beyond the hardware specifications of the connecting device for an incredible cloud gaming experience.