HP Beats Apple to Touchscreen Desktop Computing

HP has beaten Apple at introducing the first touchscreen desktop PC to feature a 60-degree reclining display, enabling users to adjust the display’s position for a comfortable user experience.

Apple patents have long covered the possibility of altering the iMac’s stand to allow the user to pull it down at an angle for comfortable touch-based input.

Whether or not HP has been granted the first such patent is unclear. What is clear is that the PC maker is shipping one of these computers tomorrow.

“The HP TouchSmart610 Consumer PC is expected to be available on Feb. 9 in the United States at a starting price of $899.99,” reads the company’s press release.

“The HP TouchSmart 9300 Business PC is expected to be available in May in the United States; pricing will be provided closer to availability,” HP said.

The new HP TouchSmart PCs are advertised as being able to offer consumers and businesses increased range of motion, superior viewing and an intuitive touch experience.

The systems apparently target gamers as well, with HP noting, “Users will enjoy using multitouch navigation to deceive and manipulate enemies as they lead their nation to victory.”

The TouchSmart 9300 comes equipped with second-generation Intel Core processors (Sandy Bridge), Windows 7, up to 16 GM of RAM, and an optional 160 GB solid-state drive.

Undoubtedly threatening Apple’s potential plans to bring the touchscreen experience to the Mac, the TouchSmart PCs are highly configurable, according to HP:

“Ideal for customer-facing environments in hospitality, retail and healthcare, the HP TouchSmart 9300 Elite Business PC combines HP’s powerful touchscreen technology with essential business benefits,” the company notes in the official report announcing the new systems.

“Businesses can configure the TouchSmart 9300 to meet a variety of workplace preferences, including desk or counter positioning, wall mount(4) or kiosk placement,” HP confirms.