Top computer maker Hewlett-Packard hasn’t given up on its quest to expand the PC market by moving computer into new areas of the home—in this case, the kitchen, den, and maybe even the foyer—by offering family-friendly features and a touchscreen interface.
HP’s IQ775 TouchSmart Desktop PC sports 2 GB of RAM, an 1.9 GHz AMD Turion Dual-Core TL-58 processor, and NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600 with 256 MB of video memory. The systems also feature and NTSC television tuner, a 500 GB SATA drive, a supermulti DVD burner with Lightscribe technology, 100-BaseT Ethernet, a front-panel 8-in-1 media card reader, 2 USB 2.0 ports, a four-pin IEEE 1394 (FireWire) port, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless networking, S-Video and co-ax video input, and support for 5.1 surround sound. Oh: and let’s not forget the integrated 19-inch LCD touchscreen display, where users can interact with programs and applications just by touching the screen: keyboard and/or mouse aren’t necessarily needed to (say) check your messages, view a calendar, pull up a recipe, or show off your favorite photos.
HP is positioning the IQ775 as a space-saver that enables busy families to stay in touch with each other, get all the information they need, organize their lives, and stay connected with friends and news…as well as easily access videos, music, and photos without having to trudge off to the home office, fiddle with keyboards and mice, or fuss with a conventional PC. Built on Windows Vista Home Premium, the system also comes with a wireless IR remove so users can control videos, music, and slides from across the room, and the unit features an integrated Webcam so users can leave each other video messages and engage in video chat with family and friends.
The IQ775 is available in the U.S., Canada, Korea, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, with a suggested U.S. retail price of $1,599.
