HP unveils multi-touch business tablet

The EliteBook 2740p has a reversible multi-touch display

HP has taken the wraps off its first multi-touch enabled tablet aimed at business users, along with a new lightweight EliteBook and a new ProBook series for small businesses.

The EliteBook 2740p is described as an ultra-thin, multi-touch convertible tablet that provides an interactive experience for industry sectors such as healthcare, education and sales.

The 1.7kg system has a reversible screen that can be folded flat over the keyboard allowing it to be used in slate mode, and is based on Intel Core i5 and Core i7 processors.

Its 12.1in display comes with either an LED backlight or an optional outdoor-view display with less reflection and a higher contrast for easier viewing in natural light.

HP said that the multi-touch screen allows users to get work done more intuitively and faster based on their choice of input method, using gestures, finger taps and swipes across the screen to navigate through applications and menus, for example.

The EliteBook 2740p will have a variety of battery options, including a six-cell lithium-ion prismatic battery providing up to five hours of uptime, plus an optional HP 2700 ultra-slim battery that provides up to 11 hours when combined with the standard battery, HP said.

Meanwhile, the EliteBook 2540p is described as HP's smallest and lightest EliteBook model at 1.53kg, and is designed for maximum portability and uncompromised performance.

Also running Core i5 and Core i7 chips, the EliteBook 2540p has up to 4GB DDR3 memory and an optional HP Mobile Broadband/GPS module as well as 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi.

Both the EliteBook 2740p and 2540p meet the US military MIL-STD 810G specifications, according to HP.

Also announced by HP is the ProBook s-series for small businesses, featuring a brushed-aluminium metal case for durability, Core i3, i5 and i7 processors and up to 4GB memory, with prices starting at $719 (£480)

Four models are available with 13.3in, 14in, 15.6in and 17in screens, all expected to be available in the US from this month.

The EliteBook models are expected to be available from next month. UK pricing and availability dates have yet to be announced.