HP has introduced an Android-powered AIO desktop tablet – the first for the struggling PC Company.
Running on a 1.8GHzTegra 4 ARM-based CPU, the new tablet centres on a 21-5-inch IPS touchscreen display, with support for 10-point multi-touch. It has a stand fitted to the rear to help it stay in an upright position.
HP has also built-in dual DTS specified stereo speakers and TrueVision HD Webcam.
Similar to Android smartphones, the Slate 21 incorporates Wireless Direct printing capabilities. It runs the current version of Android 4.2.2. HP has applied a customised skin to help the device work more optimally in a desktop configuration.
According to Electronista, benchmark tests reveal that the HP Slate 21 scored 23,584 points on the AnTuTu benchmarking utility. The results suggest the device could potentially deliver a very solid, albeit low-end, desktop user experience.
One of the key advantages in choosing Android over Windows RT, which is also designed to run on ARM-based chips like the Tegra 4, is that there are hundreds of thousands of apps ready for immediate download. There are far fewer available for Windows RT, while its main advantage over Google’s Chrome OS is it does not require an always-on connection.
The Slate 21 comes with a hinge that lets it be adjusted by hand from 15 and 70 degrees. It can also be mounted on a wall.
This is the latest example of HP distancing itself from Microsoft and cosying up to Google. In April, HP rolled out its first Android tablet, the Slate 7, and it’s planning to launch another in August called the SlateBook x2.
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