Toshiba has announced its first range of laptops to feature a 16in display. The Satellite A350 series are multimedia models custom-built for optimum movie playback with a 16:9 widescreen display, which the company said is becoming increasingly popular with buyers.

For high-quality audio, the A350 models have integrated Harmon Kardon speakers, and Dolby Sound Room technology which delivers a true surround-sound experience, according to Toshiba.

The new range has a high-gloss black finish accented by silver stripes, with a row of illuminated buttons for quick access to multimedia functions.

Toshiba has produced models based on Intel Core 2 Duo processors, at clock speeds up to 2.13GHz, and a single model with a 2.1GHz AMD Turion Ultra dual-core chip.

All models can be fitted with up to 4Gb memory, while the AMD-based model supports up to 8Gb. Hard drives are 250GB or 320GB, with a DVD Super Multi Drive and HDMI video output on selected models.

The Satellite A350 models weigh 2.94kg and have a quoted battery life of up to two hours 15 minutes. All models feature 802.11a/g/draft-N wireless, with optional Bluetooth.

Prices start at £529 including VAT for the Intel-based Satellite A350 models, while the AMD-based A350D model costs £649 including VAT.