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HP Introduces 'Touchy-Feely' PC

New line of computers controlled by touching the screen

June 10, 2008 

"Our engineers have created a fun, engaging and simple touch experience for the home that nobody else offers today," said John Cook, vice president of marketing, Worldwide Consumer PC Business, HP. "We're changing personal computing from just feeds and speeds to an experience influenced by consumer trends and design that anticipates customer's needs. The HP TouchSmart PC is all about reinventing the personal computer experience."

HP says a finger tapped or swept across the high-resolution screen delivers quick access to information, entertainment and social networks. Without using a keyboard or mouse, consumers can play music and create playlists, zoom in or out of photos, and quickly check the weather or watch TV.

HP TouchSmart PCs are designed to resemble the lines of a messenger bag and to be deployed in a number of different locations in a home or office.

HP TouchSmart IQ500 series PC software is designed to make it easier for people to access and interact with their media. For example, consumers can browse a music collection by album art in a tiled fashion or fan view. People can crop, edit and share photos as well as upload them directly to Snapfish from HP without the need to use a keyboard or mouse.

Consumers also can watch and record their favorite TV shows, burn personal videos with the built-in DVD burner, upload videos they create directly to YouTube, and enjoy high-quality sound with the integrated premium stereo speakers. The PC also features a built-in webcam and microphone to help users keep in touch with friends and family anywhere they have Internet access through video chat and conference.

"The introduction of a touch computer with such a strong focus on digital entertainment opens the door to an entirely new way for consumers to engage with their content," said Stephen Baker, vice president, industry analysis, The NPD Group. "HP TouchSmart PCs will allow people to interact with their photos, videos, music and games in unique ways, plus they do everything that you'd expect from a traditional PC."

Prices for the base model HP TouchSmart IQ504 PC and the TV-tuner equipped IQ506 PC are expected to start at $1,299 and $1499, respectively. Customers can shop by phone, online, or in retail outlets. Models are expected to be available in retail outlets on July 13.

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