HP takes on the Surface Pro 3 with the Pro x2 612, a ‘true laptop replacement’

Ron

HP takes on the Surface Pro 3 with the Pro x2 612, a 'full notebook replacement' device

HP has unveiled the Pro x2 612, a detachable two-in-one notebook PC for business users. HP hopes to take on the recently unveiled Surface Pro 3 from Microsoft and touts this new device as a “full notebook replacement.” The device is touted as a full high-powered notebook and a sleek business tablet that offers maximum flexibility and security.

The HP Pro x2 612 is the company’s first commercial detachable PC, built from the ground up exclusively for enterprise users. The device features a 12.5-inch diagonal display, Intel Core i3/i5 processors (Haswell) including a vPro option, Smart Card Reader, and an optional fingerprint reader. The device features two USB 3.0 ports and LTE support.

Microsoft’s recently unveiled Surface Pro 3 is touted as the best device to replace your laptop, but lacks several key features such as a smartcard reader, fingerprint reader, and 4G/LTE support . “We made the decision to build this particular product as a true laptop replacement,” HP’s Daron Chalk stated. “The other product has a very different approach.”

The tablet portion of the device can be attached to the full-size Power Keyboard, which contains an embedded battery. The Power Keyboard features a VGA connection, RJ-45, DisplayPort, two USB 3.0 ports, and a side docking connector for an optional HP UltraSlim dock. The dual-batteries (tablet and keyboard together) offer up to 14 hours of battery life, while the tablet alone offers eight hours of battery life. You can also choose the ultra mobile backlit keyboard, which features a USB 3.0 port, audio jack, and power connector. The device also features an optional battery-free Wacom pen (1024 levels of pressure sensitivity and palm rejection technology) with built-in holder.

“While the use of technology in business has allowed a blurring of the line that separates work and life, many businesses require updated technology that delivers a secure and satisfying experience to its employees,” said Enrique Lores, senior vice president and general manager, Commercial PCs, HP. “HP continues to innovate secure business devices that allow employees to be productive and stylish wherever work – or life – takes them.”

The HP Pro x2 612 and HP Pro Tablet 612 (standalone tablet) are expected to be available in September and no pricing details were revealed. Take a look at a hands-on video of the device below.