Apple Retakes Top Mobile PC Market Share Position from HP in 2011

Apple Retakes Top Mobile PC Market Share Position from HP in Q2’11 - Apple shipped over 13.5 million mobile PCs in Q2’11 for 136% Y/Y shipment growth, overtaking HP for the top spot, according to preliminary results from the latest DisplaySearch Quarterly Mobile PC Shipment and Forecast Report. Nearly 80% of Apple’s mobile PC shipments were iPads, which reached over 10.7 million units, for 107% Y/Y growth. Apple’s total mobile PC shipments (notebook and tablet PCs) were 3.9 million units more than HP’s nearly 9.7 million units for the quarter.

From a category perspective, tablet PCs continue to be the engine of growth for the mobile PC industry. Tablet PC shipments were up nearly 70% Q/Q and over 400% Y/Y with nearly 16.4 million units shipped in Q2’11. Notebook PC shipments were down 2% Q/Q but up 2% Y/Y with nearly 48 million units shipped in Q2’11. A consumer notebook PC adoption slowdown continues to hold back the industry following a 2% Y/Y drop in shipments in Q1’11. Worldwide mobile PC shipments (including notebook and tablet PCs) reached 64.4 million in Q2’11, up 10% Q/Q and 28% Y/Y. Among the top five players, Acer experienced the largest decline in shipment growth. Acer’s shipment growth declined in Q2’11, falling 4% Q/Q and 12% Y/Y.

In the notebook PC category, Samsung and Dell had the fastest shipment growth, up 44% and 33% Y/Y, respectively. Dell was also up Q/Q with 27% shipment growth, as it continues to take advantage of a rebound in commercial market PC shipments. Samsung’s shipments fell 16% Q/Q as it was unable to build off of strong shipment results in EMEA and China. Still Samsung was able to top Q1’11 shipment levels in North America and Asia Pacific.

…»Continue Reading!

iCookbook Hit Tablet App for Cooks Now Available on HP TouchPad

iCookbook App Now Available on HP TouchPad - Publications International launches the latest version of their hit tablet app for cooks, iCookbook, onto the new HP TouchPad

The iCookbook app is now available on the HP TouchPad. The highlight app for anyone who spends time in the kitchen, iCookbook for HP webOS from Publications International includes more than 2,000 recipes from some of the top food brands in the world, and includes features that make it a great sit-on-the-counter meal planning and preparation app.

The unique capabilities of webOS, such as TouchPad’s enhanced navigation methods, enabled PIL to add custom experiences to iCookbook. For example, iCookbook leverages a multi-panel view in the “Prepare” display that makes access to information easier and more intuitive.

PIL has been publishing cookbooks for forty years and sells more than 9 million cookbooks each year. Its team of cooking experts have worked for more than a year on iCookbook and developed it from the perspective of a home cook. “We saw when we were creating iCookbook that many of the recipe apps were not well-suited for use in the kitchen. They were simply recipe and meal planners,” said Jerry Croft, President of the Cooking Division and Digital Media at PIL. “With iCookbook, we started from actual food preparation and worked backwards, looking at what the home cook would need at each step.”

…»Continue Reading!

HP Launches ProBook Laptop Series

HP Launches ProBook Laptop Series: HP today announced a new brand of affordable notebook PCs that merge business functionality with sophisticated design to stand out from the crowd.

The HP ProBook series joins the award-winning HP EliteBook series to form one of the most versatile business notebook portfolios in the industry. Inspired by minimalism, the design of the new HP ProBook series combines matte and glossy surfaces while stripping out the extraneous, leaving only a stylish and clean look.

Distinguished by a choice of merlot or glossy noir finishes, a unique keyboard design and a set of professional innovations previously found only on higher-priced models, the HP ProBook series delivers HP’s best combination of business features, functionality and value.
“The stunning HP ProBook s-series delivers exceptional style and aggressive pricing that will captivate small and medium business users,” said Ted Clark, senior vice president and general manager, Notebook Global Business Unit, Personal Systems Group, HP. “But it’s not just about good looks or low cost, the HP ProBooks deliver the right blend of features and professional innovations to provide a great user experience.”

The standard series (s-series) of the new HP ProBook models incorporate a mercury-free design, and features high-definition (HD) LED backlit displays in a choice of 14-inch, 15.6-inch and 17.3-inch diagonal widescreen sizes.

The keyboard’s innovative layout provides a visually open and spacious keyboard with keys raised from the surface. Usability is the same as with traditional keyboards and the raised surface means fewer places for dirt and dust to hide making it easy to clean and more maintenance free than ever before.

Select HP ProBook models incorporate the latest in wireless connectivity with HP Mobile Broadband. Built-in Qualcomm Gobi technology enables HP notebooks to use a single module, the HP un2400, to support multiple mobile broadband network technologies and mobile operators. This increases users’ international roaming options and offers greater choice and flexibility in choosing a mobile data plan.

In addition to Microsoft® Windows® operating system offerings, select HP ProBook s-series models will offer Novell SuSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 11 preinstalled. SuSE Linux is an easy-to-use open source operating system that gives users the connectivity, usability and features they expect.

HP Professional Innovations included on the ProBook s-series include HP QuickLook 2 software, which provides access to e-mail, calendar, task and contact information within seconds at the touch of a button. The HP SpareKey feature addresses the hassle of forgotten passwords by using a sequence of three predetermined personal identification questions to gain immediate entry into the system. For added data security, File Sanitizer for HP Protect Tools permanently deletes individual files, folders and personally identifiable information from the notebook, which also allows customers to recycle the notebook with confidence that their business data has been removed.

Designed for recyclability, the ProBook s-series has been engineered for reduced impact on the environment by eliminating or reducing substances of concern, using fewer resources and reducing energy consumption.

The entire HP ProBook portfolio holds an Electronic Products Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT®) silver rating and is ENERGY STAR® qualified for energy savings. HP ProBook models configured with the Microsoft Windows operating system include a power management capability to save energy by automatically switching the PC into a low-power mode after a period of inactivity. Energy-saving HP Smart AC Adapters allow the notebooks to automatically make power adjustments as needed. Additionally, more than 90 percent of HP notebook PCs (by weight) are recyclable or recoverable (do not go to a landfill).

Infusing style into everyday business

The HP ProBook s-series includes:

HP ProBook 4410s and HP ProBook 4415s – Feature a 14-inch diagonal 16:9 HD widescreen LED backlight display, integrated optical drive with Blu-ray option and choice of ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD 4330 or Intel® GMA X4500 HD graphics controller. Wireless connectivity includes standard Wi-Fi certified WLAN and optional integrated Bluetooth® wireless technology. The notebooks also incorporate an HDMI port to connect to HD displays, and include Intel (4410s) or AMD (4415s) processors to offer a variety of options for mobility and longer battery life.

HP ProBook 4510s and HP ProBook 4515s – Offer a 15.6-inch diagonal 16:9 HD widescreen LED backlight display. Customers can select the optional HP Mobile Broadband connectivity with built-in Gobi technology, while standard Wi-Fi certified WLAN and optional integrated Bluetooth wireless technology round out the wireless connectivity technologies. They also feature an integrated numeric keypad. The notebooks include a choice of Intel (4510s) or AMD (4515s) processors to meet high demands for performance and connectivity and choice of discrete or UMA graphics. There is also an integrated numeric keypad on the 15.6-inch and 17.3-inch models.

HP ProBook 4710s – Features a 17.3-inch diagonal HD widescreen display, the largest of the lineup. For more graphics-intensive environments, the notebook includes the ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4330, with up to 512 megabytes of GDDR2 for video memory. It also features the latest Intel Core™ 2 Duo processors. Wireless connectivity includes standard Wi-Fi certified WLAN and optional integrated Bluetooth wireless technology. The notebook incorporates a HDMI port to connect to HD displays, as well as an integrated numeric keypad.

The HP USB 2.0 Docking Station is a compatible accessory for the HP ProBook s-series. In just one step, users are connected to their keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer and other accessories, and they are able to get video, audio, network connectivity and up to four universal serial bus (USB) connected devices working at the same time.

Pricing and availability

Estimated starting U.S. street pricing begins at $529. Notebook availability varies by region. Merlot color option is available only on 14-inch and 15.6-inch models and is expected to be available in June. The HP USB 2.0 Docking Station is available now for $139.

HP is extending its recently announced zero percent financing promotions that make it simple and affordable for small businesses to continue investing in the technology that can help them increase efficiency and grow their businesses. Offered through HP Financial Services, the company’s asset management services and leasing subsidiary, the two promotions provide customers the choice to either lease or own products.

More information about the HP ProBook s-series product specifications, images and other HP mobility solutions is available in an online press kit at http://www.hp.com/go/mobility2009 or at http://www.hp.com/personal.

About HP
HP, the world’s largest technology company, simplifies the technology experience for consumers and businesses with a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com.

© 2009 Hewlett-Packard & Respective Owners
Source: HP Press Release

…»Continue Reading!

HP Blackbird 002 the extreme Gaming PC on retail stores and online shops this summer

On June 9th, 2008 HP announced that the award-winning HP Blackbird 002 will be available in an exclusive configuration at Amazon.com, Newegg.com and select Best Buy, Circuit City, J&R and Micro Center retail stores and online shops this summer...

This is the first time HP Blackbird 002 will be available in retail stores, making it more accessible to consumers and allowing them the chance to experience it up close and personal. The retail configuration will include the cutting-edge design and performance elements that set this machine apart from other desktop PCs in its class. The retail displays will include video demonstrations of the system and offer live game play.

Since its introduction, the HP Blackbird 002 with Voodoo DNA has attracted accolades for features including the ability to handle extreme computing challenges, from next-generation games to demanding professional applications, as well as its isolated thermal chambers, tool-free accessibility, and cable-free hard drive installation. Recognized for its ground-breaking design, the HP Blackbird 002’s attention-getting shape combines a stylish sensibility and cool practicality.

“While Blackbird has been well-received online, we know there is a large segment of consumers who crave a hands-on experience before making a purchase decision,” said Mike Perkins, vice president and general manager, Voodoo Business Unit, HP. “We are introducing the HP Blackbird 002 to a new audience and anticipate a fantastic response to this one-of-a-kind fragging machine.”

This is Video review of Computer Shopper magazine Associate Editor Matthew Murray on the HP Blackbird 002 With Voodoo DNA, a new High-End Desktop and Gaming PC well have a look...




The HP Blackbird 002’s exclusive retail configuration is priced at $3,299, and includes:

* Intel® Core™ 2 Quad Processor Q9450
* Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium 64-bit edition with Service Pack 1
* Quiet, liquid cooled CPU
* NVIDIA nForce SLI motherboard with RAID support
* Dual SLI NVIDIA GeForce 9800 GT graphics cards with support for Microsoft® DirectX 10
* 4,096 MB Corsair Dominator system memory with DHX technology
* 500 GB 7,200 rpm SATA hard drive
* Five internal, hot-swappable hard drive bays
* 7.1 onboard HD audio
* Concealed USB, FireWire® and audio ports, plus 15-in-1 memory card reader
* 900 watt power plant
* One-year HP limited warranty and toll-free phone support

On June 29, a list of availability dates and retail locations will be available at www.hp.com/go/bbretail. Customers can also continue to purchase and configure the HP Blackbird 002 online at www.hp.com/voodoodna or via phone by calling +1 877 776 4752.

Complete Technical Specifications:

Motherboards:
* EVGA 780i
* Asus Maximus Formula X38

Processor:
Intel® Core™ Micro architecture

* Up to SSE 3 support
* Energy efficiency optimization
* Thermal cut-outs to mitigate damage from system overclocking

Configurations:
* Intel® Core2™ Duo 2.66GHz [E6750]; 4MB of L2 cache; 1333 MHz FSB
* Intel® Core2™ Duo 3.0GHz [E6850]; 4MB of L2 cache; 1333 MHz FSB
* Intel® Core2™ Duo 2.66GHz [E8200]; 6MB of L2 cache; 1333 MHz FSB
* Intel® Core2™ Duo 3.0GHz [E8400]; 6MB of L2 cache; 1333 MHz FSB
* Intel® Core2™ Quad 2.40GHz [Q6600]; 8MB of L2 cache; 1066 MHz FSB
* Intel® Core2™ Quad 2.66GHz [Q9450]; 12MB of L2 cache; 1333 MHz FSB
* Intel® Core2™ Quad 2.83GHz [Q9550]; 12MB of L2 cache; 1333 MHz FSB
* Intel® Core2™ Extreme Quad-Core 3.0GHz [QX6850]; 8MB of L2 cache; 1333MHz
* Intel® Core2™ Extreme Quad-Core 3.0GHz [QX9650]; 12MB of L2 cache; 1333MHz

Memory:
* 2 or 4 GB 667 MHz PC2-5300 DDR2 SDRAM
* 2 or 4 GB 800 MHz CORSAIR PC2-6400 DDR2 SDRAM
* 2 or 4 GB 1066MHz CORSAIR PC2-8500 DDR2 SDRAM SLI Ready

Four DIMM slots supporting up to 4 GB of main memory
256-bit-wide memory architecture

Graphics and Displays:
Two Doublewide, 16-lane PCI Express graphics slot with one or more of the following graphic cards installed:

* NVIDIA® GeForce® 8800 GT with 512MB of GDDR3 SDRAM, supports Dual-Link DVI
* NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GTX, with 768MB of GDDR3 SDRAM supports Dual-Link DVI (available with liquid cooling)
* NVIDIA GeForce 8800 ULTRA, with 768MB of GDDR3 SDRAM supports Dual-Link DVI (available with liquid cooling)

* ATI RADEON HD3870 XT, with 512MB of GDDR3 SDRAM, supports Dual-Link DVI (available with liquid-cooling)
* ATI RADEON HD3870 X2, with 1GB of GDDR4 SDRAM, supports Dual-Link DVI

Supports both ATI Crossfire and NVDIA SLI multiple graphic card configurations
Four slots to support NVIDIA SLI or ATI Crossfire configurations with two PCIe graphics cards
Dual-link DVI ports support up to 2560 by 1600 pixels.
Support for analog resolutions up to 2048 by 1536 pixels at 85HZ
DVI to VGA adapter included
Dual-display support for extended desktops and video cloning modes

Physics
* AGEIA PhysX™ 100 Series PCI-E Accelerator Card

Networking
Two independent 10/100/1000BASE-T Ethernet (RJ-45) ports that can support jumbo frames with low latency on gigabit connections

Storage
Flexible RAID capabilities

Five independent Serial ATA hard drive bays
Up to 5TB of internal storage using drives with the following capacities:

* Hard drive bays 1 – 5 can be configured with the following drives
o 160GB 10,000 rpm SATA (Western Digital Raptor)
o 320GB 7200 rpm SATA
o 500GB 7200 rpm SATA
o 750GB 7200 rpm SATA
o 1 TB 7200 rpm SATA

Two Super multi-drive, slim slots with Lightscribe (DVD+/-R/RW+/-DL)

* Writes DVD-R discs at up to 16x speed
* Writes DVD+R DL discs at up to 4x speed
* Reads DVDs at up to 8x speed
* Writes CD-R discs at up to 40x speed
* Writes CD-RW discs at up to 24x speed
* Reads CDs at up to 24x speed

A single 5 1/4 bay for Blu-ray and HD DVD-ROM Super multi-drive with LightScribe BD-R/RE SL/DL read and write compatible

* CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW/RAM, +R/RW, +/- R DL
* CD Family, DVD-ROM read compatible
* HD DVD-ROM/R read compatible

Electrical and environmental requirements
* Line voltage: 100-120V AC or 200-240V AC (wide-range power supply input voltage)
* Frequency: 50Hz to 60Hz single phase
* Current: Maximum of 12A (low-voltage range) or 6A (high-voltage range)
* Operating temperature: 50° to 95° F (10° to 35° C)
* Storage temperature: -40° to 116° F (-40° to 47° C)
* Relative humidity: 5% to 95% noncondensing
* Maximum altitude: 10,000 feet

Peripherals and audio
Back panel:
* One PS/2 mouse port
* One PS/2 keyboard port
* Two eSATA ports
* One IEEE1394 port
* LCD screen (for diagnostics and status)
* LCD back light button (some boards only)
* SPDIF out and optical out port
* Two RJ-45 (Gigabit Ethernet) ports (number depends on MB)
* Four USB 2.0 ports (number depends on MB)

Top panel:
* 15 in 1 multi-card reader
* One IEEE1394 port
* Two USB 2.0 ports
* One 1/8" microphone jack
* One 1/8" headphone jack

Audio Options
* ADI onboard audio
* Creative Audio Sound Blaster® X-Fi™ XtremeGamer
* Creative Audio Sound Blaster® X-Fi™ XtremeGamer Fatal1ty Professional

Features
* Speaker and Headphone connections: Stereo to 7.1 (Line Out via three 3.5mm mini jacks)
* Flexijack: Line In / Microphone In / Digital Out / Digital I/O via shared 3.5mm mini jack
* Auxiliary Line level Input: 4-pin Molex connector

Expansion slots
* 3 PCIe x16 slots (The two blue PCIe x16 slots operate with a full compliment of 16 PCI Express lanes, while the third white slot operates with only 8)
* 1 PCIe x1 slot
* 2 PCI v2.2 slots

Operating System and Software
* Microsoft® Windows Vista™ Ultimate
* Microsoft® Windows Vista™ Home Premium

Security
* Grisoft AVG Professional (1 year base for all models)
* Grisoft AVG Professional (2 year upgrade available)
* Grisoft AVG Internet Security (2 year license available

Productivity
* Adobe® Reader®
* Microsoft® Office Pro 2007
* Microsoft® Office Small Business Edition 2007
* Microsoft® Office Basic 2007

Media Software
* CyberLink PowerDirector
* CyberLink Power2Go
* CyberLink DVD Play
* CyberLink Label Print

Supplemental Discs
* Genuine Microsoft® Windows Vista™ Installation DVD
* Driver and Applications Recovery DVD

Size and weight
* Height: 598.64 mm (23.5 inches)
* Width: 266.96 mm (9 inches)
* Length: 557.23 mm (22 inches)
* Weight (full configuration): 72 pounds (32.659 kg)

About HP
HP focuses on simplifying technology experiences for all of its customers – from individual consumers to the largest businesses. With a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure, HP is among the world’s largest IT companies, with revenue totaling $110.4 billion for the four fiscal quarters ended April 30, 2008. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com.
Soure: HP Press Release

…»Continue Reading!