Microsoft’s CEO, Steve Ballmer, has unveiled an exciting new multitouch tablet PC during his keynote speech at this year’s CES. The tablet, manufactured by HP, appears to run a standard version of Windows 7, which has sparked considerable interest and speculation among tech enthusiasts.
The specifications of the HP Slate are somewhat sparse at the moment, but it does feature multitouch input and a built-in accelerometer. During the keynote, Microsoft demonstrated the tablet running Amazon’s Kindle PC app, showcasing its potential as a versatile device for reading and other applications.
Key Features and Potential Uses
The multitouch capability of the HP Slate is one of its standout features, allowing users to interact with the device using multiple fingers simultaneously. This can enhance the user experience in various applications, from browsing the web to playing games. The built-in accelerometer adds another layer of functionality, enabling the device to detect its orientation and adjust the display accordingly. This is particularly useful for activities such as reading e-books or watching videos, as it ensures the content is always displayed in the optimal orientation.
Here is a brief video of the HP Slate in action.
Market Expectations and Comparisons
To be honest, the initial impression of the HP Slate may not seem groundbreaking, especially considering that it runs a standard version of Windows 7 rather than a custom version tailored for tablet use. This decision by Microsoft has led to some debate among tech analysts and consumers. Many had anticipated a more specialized operating system that could leverage the unique form factor and capabilities of a tablet.
However, it’s important to consider the broader context. At the time of its release, the tablet market was still in its early stages, and manufacturers were experimenting with different approaches. By using a familiar operating system like Windows 7, Microsoft and HP could potentially attract users who were already comfortable with the desktop experience, thereby lowering the barrier to adoption.
The HP Slate is expected to go on sale later in the year, although specific details on pricing and availability have yet to be announced. This leaves room for speculation about how it will be positioned in the market relative to other tablets, such as Apple’s iPad, which was also generating significant buzz around the same time.
In conclusion, while the HP Slate may not have initially appeared to be a game-changer, it represents an important step in the evolution of tablet computing. Its multitouch capabilities, built-in accelerometer, and the decision to run a full version of Windows 7 highlight the diverse approaches companies were taking to capture the emerging tablet market. As more details emerge, it will be interesting to see how the HP Slate is received by consumers and how it influences future developments in the industry.
via Tech Spot
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