HP Unveils 'Slate 500' Tablet Computer for Professionals

Oct. 22, 2010
P is targeting its device at business customers and touting its ability to handle documents, spreadsheets and applications from Microsoft.

Hewlett-Packard unveiled a Windows-powered touchscreen tablet computer on Oct. 22. It's the latest entry into a growing market dominated by Apple's iPad.

The "HP Slate 500," which features an 8.9-inch screen, slightly smaller than the iPad's 9.7-inch display, costs $800, about the same price as the top-of-the-line iPad.

While the iPad is aimed more at consumers, HP is targeting its device at business customers and touting its ability to handle documents, spreadsheets and applications from Microsoft.

HP described the Slate 500 as the "ideal PC for professionals who don't usually work at a traditional desk, yet need to stay productive in a secure, familiar Windows environment."

"The ability to easily incorporate custom business applications differentiates this product and ultimately enhances the user experience and saves time for HP's business and enterprise customers," it said.

The Slate 500 weighs 1.5 pounds, the same as the iPad, and runs Windows 7, the latest version of Microsoft's computer operating system. It has two cameras -- one still and one video -- and a USB port that allows a user to connect a keyboard, mouse or printer.

The Slate 500 offers Wi-Fi connectivity to the Internet but does not have 3G cellular access. It will be available only in the United States for the time being.

The device has five hours of battery life and comes with a digital stylus that lets users write notes directly on the screen.

HP unveiled the Slate 500 just two days after Samsung announced it would begin selling its answer to the iPad, the Samsung Galaxy Tab, in the United States on November 11 for 600 dollars. The Galaxy Tab, which is powered by Google's Android software, features a seven-inch touchscreen.

According to market research firm Gartner, sales of tablet computers are expected to soar from nearly 20 million units this year to 55 million next year. Apple sold 4.2 million iPads last quarter.

Copyright Agence France-Presse, 2010

Popular Sponsored Recommendations

Powering Up Productivity: The Transformative Power of AP Automation in Manufacturing

Oct. 25, 2023
Discover how AP Automation is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry, driving efficiency, cost savings, and security. In today's world, automation is the key to staying competitive...

Lean Manufacturing in the Age of the Industrial Internet

Oct. 24, 2023
Read how advanced MES capabilities can help you improve your labor utilization, reduce WIP, and optimize your production. Download the white paper today.

3D Printing a More Efficient Factory Floor

Nov. 16, 2023
Today’s additive manufacturing platforms make it simple to print a wide range of high-performing industrial parts as soon as possible and right where you need them — unlocking...

Why DataOps may be the key to unlocking the full potential of digital transformation

Nov. 3, 2023
Read the 2023 market survey conducted by IndustryWeek

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of IndustryWeek, create an account today!