Windows 10 desktops with a difference: HP launches the modular Elite Slice and the Pavilion Wave
HP's desktop in a B&O speaker, the Pavilion Wave
HP has launched two Windows 10 machines that turn conventional desktop design on its head.
With the Pavilion Wave desktop, HP has eschewed the box or tower design traditionally used by desktops, creating a computer that looks more like a sleek, triangular Bang & Olufsen (B&O) desktop speaker.
The Pavilion Wave, which starts at $549, is available with a sixth-generation Intel Core i7 quad-core processor, up to 2TB HDD, 128GB SSD, and up to 16GB of RAM. For graphics, it can be configured with an optional AMD Radeon R9 M470, suitable for photo and video editing or light gaming, according to Microsoft.
The desktop can support two 4K displays and features three USB 3.0 ports, one USB 3.1 Type C port, an HDMI port, one DisplayPort, Gigabit ethernet and a microphone/headphone jack. It also features dual microphones, which Microsoft says will be useful for those who use Cortana.
All of the Wave's ports and sockets are located on a vertical strip running up the back of the speaker.
The HP Pavilion Wave will be available on September 23 from HP's online store and other retailers.
HP Elite Slice
With the HP Elite Slice, HP has taken a different approach, designing a small modular desktop PC, whose capabilities can be extended by stacking additional components on top. Modules are available to add features including videoconferencing, wireless charging, better audio, and additional storage.
The HP Collaboration Cover is designed to make using Skype for Business easier and features call management and capacitive touch keys. The HP Wireless Charging cover, which will begin shipping in the first half of 2017, is designed to support smartphones with wireless charging. Meanwhile, the HP audio module offers a 360-degree B&O speaker and dual microphones. The ODD module allows storage to be expanded. Also available separately will be a 23.8-inch HP Elite monitor, powered by a USB-C connection to minimise additional cables.
The Elite Slice, which runs Windows 10 Pro, is finished in matte black and includes a copper ventilation grill. It doesn't take up much space, measuring 6.5 inches x 1.38 inches x 6.5 inches and it weighs 2.31 lb.
HP is short on details about core specs, such as built-in storage capacity. However, it notes that the machine can be configured with up to 32GB RAM, as well as Intel's 6th generation i3, i5, or i7 processors.
The Elite Slice will be available in September from $699, however HP hasn't revealed pricing for modular components.
HP's modular Slice
The HP Elite Slice will serve as the foundation to the HP Elite Slice for Meeting Rooms. The system essentially is three modular components, including the Elite Slice, the HP Collaboration Cover, and HP Audio Module, in conjunction with Intel's wireless sharing software.
The Elite Slice for Meeting Rooms' uses Microsoft Skype for Business for its collaboration platform. HP displays will also be available for the unit. The 23-inch display starts at $429 while a 55-inch HP display starts at $999 and will be available in September.