14 DAY TRIAL // We’re certainly traversing the era of the 2-in-1 machines. And as we mentioned in an earlier article, the 12.5-inch frame factor for these particular designs seem to be the ones that will dominate the market, at least at first.
HP follows suit the likes of ASUS and Intel’s new reference design with the next-gen Broadwell processor and unveils the new HP Pro x2 612 business tablet.
Like the majority of hybrids on the market today, the new HP can be used both as a tablet and a laptop by virtue of the accompanying keyboard dock.
Being a device aimed at professionals, the HP Pro x2 612 offers a choice processor-wise, ranging from Intel Core i3 or Core i5. As for resolution, there’s the possibility of adding either HD or full HD to the bundle.
The tablet and keyboard sections both come equipped with separate batteries, so overall the machine can pump up to 14 hours of battery life, in case you go for the Power Keyboard option. When using the device as a stand-alone tablet, you should be able to squeeze at least 8 hours.
Speaking of keyboards, HP is throwing in a bunch of different options in the department. For example, the Power Keyboard is the most impressive, arriving with backlit keys and spill-resistant surface. It’s also equipped with VGA port, Ethernet jack, DisplayPort, 2 USB 3.0 ports, full-sized SD card plus a connector for an enterprise docking station.
For users who don’t need so many features onboard, HP is teasing the travel keyboard with USB 3.0 port, audio jack and backlit keys. However, there’s no extra battery onboard, but the keyboard can also be used as a case for the tablet and offers a built-in kickstand.
Now, going back to the HP Pro x2 612 per se, the machine seems to be the company’s answer to Microsoft’s brand new Surface Pro 3 tablet. Both tablets aim to be laptop replacements and accommodate a keyboard dock.
However, the HP one was a widescreen display and not the 3:2 aspect ratio found on the Surface Pro 3. Unlike Microsoft’s new baby, the HP machine has been created taking into account the needs of professionals operating with a lot of data.
Most importantly, HP also offers a digital pen that can be used in concert with the tablet. The device is also equipped with LTE, USB 3.0, microSD card reader, microSIM card reader plus HD cameras on the front and on the back.
Expect to see the HP Pro x2 612 in September, but you’ll have to wait until then to see how high the machine is going to be priced.
