[Merged] HP TouchSmart (IQ500 Series) All-In-One Computers with Multi-Touch Screen

[TheYankees1903]

I want to buy an HP Touchsmart 50 6to run OS X on but I have some questions...

1) Will I be able to replace the 2.1 GHz Dual Core CPU with a better CPU either dual or quad core?

2) Will I be able to install OS X Leopard on it? Even via a hack? If it would work I would buy OS X legally!!!!!!!!!

3) Will OS X Leopard be able to interact with the touchscreen?

4) Will OS X Leopard recognize the rest of the hardware?

Please Answer I Want To Pre-Order,
TheYankees1903 :apple:

[hiimamac]

Anyone seen this?

Not out yet.

http://h30440.www3.hp.com/campaigns/touchsmart/IQ500_NA/Model.html

Check out the TV Ad then the website for the touch, comes with keyboard, mouse and from what I gather, will play HD content, not bad for 22", $1400, a little slower than top of line iMac.

http://www.hp.com/united-states/campaigns/touchsmart/index.html?jumpid=ex_602_go/touchsmart/touchsmarthome


Then check out SUN MICROSYSTEM's PROJECT "Looking Glass"
http://www.sun.com/software/looking_glass/details.xml


Anyway, the TOUCH has everything from Ambient light to TV in, and runs about $1400 or so, for 22" (and plays HD?) but the interesting thing is while will run windows in TOUCH mode, is that HP has prepared this GUI interface, a software app more or less, and with windows 7 (2010 though), it makes me think if I needed a PC (which I do sometimes) that this would be a good machine.

Stronger graphic card than iMac, plus lots of little things you might not think about (card reader, tv in, 22" HD screen), now make it 46" and combine their efforts with Samsung and you have a 120hz TV and computer.

I think the winner will be whoever develops the tablet form factor with docking for more powerful computing. iMac is pretty powerful, but the HP touch software looks really good and I could see using it for photoshop, drawing,,,,,,

[AceFernalld]

"If it isn't made with a :apple:, what's the point? "

*Shakes head, leaves*

[Vster]

I'm surprised by HP lately. I still like the look of the iMac more, but they are definitely moving in the right direction. But I'd love a touch screen! I've had an iPhone since launch and carrying that over into a comp would be sweet imo. But I still like the option for keyboard and mouse. ;)

[hiimamac]

I'm surprised by HP lately. I still like the look of the iMac more, but they are definitely moving in the right direction. But I'd love a touch screen! I've had an iPhone since launch and carrying that over into a comp would be sweet imo. But I still like the option for keyboard and mouse. ;)

Well it has a keyboard and mouse which is how it should be.

IMHO, I think a tablet or device that is at a 30º angle or so would be best.

Funny thing is that HP created the GUI and if you think about it, and have a look at Suns LOOKING GLASS, one can only imagine, what if everyone starts porting software for the HP? I could see it very hand for GRAPHIC design, air traffic control, audio & video pro's.

[hiimamac]

"If it isn't made with a :apple:, what's the point? "

*Shakes head, leaves*

Wouldn't it had been bette to just leave? :rolleyes:

[bacaramac]

I still wouldn't go back to Windows, but this actually looks pretty good. Keyboard light (Apple would give backlit keyboard), pretty good interface it seems for music and photos (only thinf I would use touch for anyways).

I really hope Apple does move in this direction. New Touch iMac is what I want.

[Maxime]

http://www.tagtele.com/videos/voir/22000

HP Touchsmart IQ500

It's in french tho so most of you won't understand a word they're saying. lol

It's not really a touch screen. It uses beams that detects the position of your fingers on the screen.

Sorry if it's a repost.

[AlexisV]

Why is this in the i/eMac/Mini forum?

[djc6]

Why is this in the i/eMac/Mini forum?

So we can discuss the merits of another company's all-in-one design? It clearly takes a few cues from the iMac.

[mpw]

Why is this in the i/eMac/Mini forum?

Because it's a direct competitor to the iMac, and with the exception of the OS has better specs. Hopefully Apple will take notice.

[fivepoint]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJ9a_dFqGzc

Here is a good video of it. It looks pretty sweet... but I couldn't hold my arms out in front of me (comfortably) for more than a few minutes. How about you?

[zepharus]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJ9a_dFqGzc

Here is a good video of it. It looks pretty sweet... but I couldn't hold my arms out in front of me (comfortably) for more than a few minutes. How about you?

IMO touch is aweosme on a gadget such as the iPhone or even a tablet, but not so much on a desktop.

If you are like me. I like to browse, relax and surf primarily when I am not working. I play Games and the such as well. I AM NOT going to hold my arms out for an period of time enjoyably.. It simply is not practical at all in that application of it.


Honestly TRY RIGHT NOW to hold you hands from a sitting position at the screw for just even a cpl minutes........ Exactely


Looks cool... not practical.. Plus no matter what it has going for it, it is still running Vista.. Nuff said

[bob vansteel]

So we can discuss the merits of another company's all-in-one design? It clearly takes a few cues from the iMac.

and how exactly does it take cues from the iMac, just because its an all-in-one doesn't mean they copied apple....you hardcore mac boys are pathetic...i mean don't get me wrong, but common.

[mrpalmer420]

and how exactly does it take cues from the iMac, just because its an all-in-one doesn't mean they copied apple....you hardcore mac boys are pathetic...i mean don't get me wrong, but common.

Come on man. If you don't think part of the design is from the iMac then you are just not looking. We are not saying it is an iMac Clone but there are some things that are very similar.

[allymac]

Looks really interesting - and with a touch screen that has a fairly big win over the iMac. Shame it has M$ Windoze on it huh?

[Stampyhead]

and how exactly does it take cues from the iMac, just because its an all-in-one doesn't mean they copied apple...

It's quite obvious. Even the narrator in the video pointed out that it was reminiscent of the iMac.
I agree, the touch screen doesn't make much sense on a desktop computer. The Google Earth thing was pretty cool, though...

[Chemeddy]

Looks cool, but it doesn't change the fact that the HP PC still runs on Windoze, with ALL of its inherent problems.

I'll take my iMac without the touch features anytime. :p

[bedoig]

Obviously you can still use a keyboard/mouse for serious work. The touch interface would make for a more involving experience when the computer is used in a kitchen/living room kind of environment though. And while I'd agree that the iMac was probably the first succesfull all-in-one, that doesn't necessarily mean every all-in-one computer for the rest of eternity is imitating it. It is a pretty natural evolution as computers move out of the office and into every other aspect of our lives. I'd say Apple got beat to the punch this time. Still love my iMac though.

[Maxime]

Why is this in the i/eMac/Mini forum?

I couldn't think of another forum where it would make sense. I'm new here. Is there a forum to discuss products from other companies other then Apple? I looked and didn't see one. :confused:

[djc6]

and how exactly does it take cues from the iMac, just because its an all-in-one doesn't mean they copied apple....you hardcore mac boys are pathetic...i mean don't get me wrong, but common.

Glossy display on a desktop computer, like iMac
Included black cloth for wiping down display, like iMac
Slot loading DVD on top right hand side, like iMac
Unusually thin keyboard (for a PC), just like the one with my iMac
Includes a remote control, like iMac
Concealed webcam, like iMac
Brushed aluminum stand holding up the display, like iMac
Even the glossy-plastic mouse is very reminiscent of the Mighty Mouse

Its pretty obvious to me that HP did a few things based on the success of the iMac. That being said, it looks like the HP has a nicer remote, A/V inputs, card reader, a couple more ports, etc. I would LOVE to have A/V inputs without buying an EyeTV 250+ - and even then the 250+ isn't quite fast enough for gaming sometimes. Its a shame I have this gorgeous 24" display and I can only really use it for computing! I prefer the HP design because I'm more of a function over form guy, but I'd still buy the iMac because of OS X.

[Maxime]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJ9a_dFqGzc

Here is a good video of it. It looks pretty sweet... but I couldn't hold my arms out in front of me (comfortably) for more than a few minutes. How about you?

Wait... didn't a post of video in my post? :confused:

:p

[NiroNavro]

Not gonna lie. I'm tempted. I'd say the only real downside for me is the OS. I need a new computer and this is quite appealing. I mean, I've been looking at an iMac but...you never know. I'll probably stick with the iMac though.

[mkrishnan]

Forgive me if I'm stating the obvious... but the title of the thread reads "HP releases...." However, this is a Windows 7 device. It's just a prototype at this point, is it not?

I think it looks quite nice cosmetically. The interface looks very interesting too, although in typical Windows fashion, I do believe there is too much clutter and too many inconsistent visual elements going on at the same time. If the touch interface could be refined to focus more closely on what you're doing at the moment (which I think is one of the places where the iPhone excels), it could be really great.

P.S. Yes, I moved it to the Apple, Industry, and Internet Discussion forum. Get over it. ;)

[Maxime]

Forgive me if I'm stating the obvious... but the title of the thread reads "HP releases...." However, this is a Windows 7 device. It's just a prototype at this point, is it not?

I think it looks quite nice cosmetically. The interface looks very interesting too, although in typical Windows fashion, I do believe there is too much clutter and too many inconsistent visual elements going on at the same time. If the touch interface could be refined to focus more closely on what you're doing at the moment (which I think is one of the places where the iPhone excels), it could be really great.

P.S. Yes, I moved it to the Apple, Industry, and Internet Discussion forum. Get over it. ;)

It runs Vista + HP application on top or something like that. The video says Vista can't do touch screen so HP had to create their own applications for it.

Thanks for moving it to the more appropriate forum. :)

[illtype]

This thing really looks like a imac killer.:confused:


http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/25/hps-touchsmart-2-all-in-one-pc-now-shipping/#comments

[MinorBidoh]

looks like apple has lost out to the pc touch evolution... or has it?

[mkrishnan]

Okay, sorry, I was kind of doing several things while I was listening to the video (and my French is imperfect) so I missed that. Thanks. Here's a text description of the feature set, as of a couple of weeks ago:

http://www.hardwarezone.com/articles/view.php?cid=11&id=2588

And I guess it apparently is starting to trickle into stock already -- it's up for order in the US at Circuit City. Price is not overly unreasonable.

[mahonmeister]

They both fail because of their respective 'chins.' Seriously, Dell is the only one who got it right. Put the computer behind the screen, not underneath it.
http://i.dell.com/images/global/products/xpsdt/xpsdt_highlights/xpsdt_one_design3.jpg
Just curious, I totally just grabbed this image straight from Dell's site without hosting it elsewhere. Is that an internet no-no?

[flopticalcube]

They both fail because of their respective 'chins.' Seriously, Dell is the only one who got it right. Put the computer behind the screen, not underneath it.

Both the iMac and the HP are, for the most part, behind the screen as well. Dell has moved it from the "chin" to the "ears". I do agree it looks better, however.

Glad to see someone else testing these waters (touch screen home computers) rather than Apple.

[bedoig]

It runs Vista + HP application on top or something like that. The video says Vista can't do touch screen so HP had to create their own applications for it.

Thanks for moving it to the more appropriate forum. :)

I agree. Looks to me like some HP add-ons for media, etc.

Vista has plenty of built-in touch screen control though. That input panel you see that he is using to write with his finger is straight out of Vista, as are a number of other touch-related features. Windows Media Center is also great with a touch interface. Personally, I like Vista a lot. I'm running it on an 800mhz UMPC no problem. A dual boot for OSX might be nice too though ;)

[illtype]

this thing is so amazing. i used one and it is the real deal. the price is great. perfect for a kitchen or den. i think i am going to sell my imac and get this.

[mahonmeister]

Both the iMac and the HP are, for the most part, behind the screen as well. Dell has moved it from the "chin" to the "ears". I do agree it looks better, however. Exactly. The Dell machine is vertically symmetrical as well as horizontally (mostly). The lack of horizontal symmetry for the iMac and this HP machine create an unbalanced, awkward appearance.

I wouldn't mind playing with this machine though. Touchscreens are quite fun, given some good software to play with.

[NiroNavro]

Would any of you consider this over an iMac?

[mpw]

Would any of you consider this over an iMac?
Yes.

[Techguy172]

It runs Vista + HP application on top or something like that. The video says Vista can't do touch screen so HP had to create their own applications for it.

Thanks for moving it to the more appropriate forum. :)

Of Course vista supports Touch, it's just the bigger buttons in the HP interface make it easier.

[NiroNavro]

This thing looks fricken awesome. I was set on getting a mac because I hear nothing but good things about their computers and operating systems. But then this is coming out. I'm kind of sick of Windows and the computer I have. It is very slow, it gets viruses and spyware often and I don't always find it to be the easiest to use.
So, I have some hang ups with Windows. Granted I'm using Windows XP. I haven't used Vista but then again I haven't heard very good things about it either.
The Touchsmart looks great but the specs are lower than the iMacs (slower processor, less frontside bus, lower end graphics) and I'm looking for a machine that is nice, quick, and easy to use. I'm not using my computer for much other than internet, music, photos, movies, office tools. The basics. I'm not a PC gamer either.
So, my question is, should I still plan on an iMac or should I get the Touchsmart?
I like the thought of a touchscreen, I have an iPod Touch and love it, but the low specs and OS make me question it.

Please HELP!!!

[mkrishnan]

The Touchsmart looks great but the specs are lower than the iMacs (slower processor, less frontside bus, lower end graphics) and I'm looking for a machine that is nice, quick, and easy to use. I'm not using my computer for much other than internet, music, photos, movies, office tools. The basics. I'm not a PC gamer either.

I think for those kinds of applications, the specs of both the iMac and the IQ500 are more than sufficient. The big unknown (to me) is how that interface performs -- it looks reasonably responsive, but I've never tried it. If you got this HP, I would think you'd be using it with the touchscreen as much as possible. I think you have to go see one -- it's hard to tell amazing use as often as possible touchscreen (like using an iPhone for the first time) from pain in the ass never does what you want touchscreen. And really it'll depend on you a little bit. So again, try and see if there isn't somewhere you can see one?

[mahonmeister]

This thing looks fricken awesome. I was set on getting a mac because I hear nothing but good things about their computers and operating systems. But then this is coming out. I'm kind of sick of Windows and the computer I have. It is very slow, it gets viruses and spyware often and I don't always find it to be the easiest to use.
So, I have some hang ups with Windows. Granted I'm using Windows XP. I haven't used Vista but then again I haven't heard very good things about it either.
The Touchsmart looks great but the specs are lower than the iMacs (slower processor, less frontside bus, lower end graphics) and I'm looking for a machine that is nice, quick, and easy to use. I'm not using my computer for much other than internet, music, photos, movies, office tools. The basics. I'm not a PC gamer either.
So, my question is, should I still plan on an iMac or should I get the Touchsmart?
I like the thought of a touchscreen, I have an iPod Touch and love it, but the low specs and OS make me question it.

Please HELP!!!Get the HP so you can tell us how it is.:p

But seriously, just get what ever you want. They goth will be plenty fast for what you want to do.

[bluecrow628]

vista! it burnssss! id rather get an imac, even if it is touch sensitive

[bob vansteel]

Glossy display on a desktop computer, like iMac
Included black cloth for wiping down display, like iMac
Slot loading DVD on top right hand side, like iMac
Unusually thin keyboard (for a PC), just like the one with my iMac
Includes a remote control, like iMac
Concealed webcam, like iMac
Brushed aluminum stand holding up the display, like iMac
Even the glossy-plastic mouse is very reminiscent of the Mighty Mouse

Its pretty obvious to me that HP did a few things based on the success of the iMac. That being said, it looks like the HP has a nicer remote, A/V inputs, card reader, a couple more ports, etc. I would LOVE to have A/V inputs without buying an EyeTV 250+ - and even then the 250+ isn't quite fast enough for gaming sometimes. Its a shame I have this gorgeous 24" display and I can only really use it for computing! I prefer the HP design because I'm more of a function over form guy, but I'd still buy the iMac because of OS X.


-really a glossy display like many screens out there in the world(sry i frgt every monitor with a glossy screen copied apple)
-oooo a cloth, i have one of those bundled in evry electronic device i get that has a screen
-wow it comes with a remote, oh ya just like every other HP pc
-huh a concealed webcam....wait, you mean that apple is the only company in the world to "conceal" a webcam, thats just crazy!
-oh ya, i'm sure that because aluminum has a nice design, widely abundant, and cheap has nothing to do with it.
-and of course, becuase the mouse is made of plastic its copying the crappy mighty mouse

really....hmm ya exactly like the iMac

sorry if i'm being sarcastic, but this is exactly why i hate mac fanboys...i'm not saying i don't like apple or osx, in fact i like both....i just can't stand you annoying little mac fanatics.

[benzslrpee]

all the reviews i've Googled on this machine has included some sort of iMac reference/comparison. whether it be the touch screen control, all-in-one factor, screen size, slim keyboard etc etc etc. hell even the comments on the reviews left by users keep using iMacs as a base comparison. i have yet to read anything written on how this looks like it's related to the XPS One.

this has nothing to do with mac fanboy-ism. you want to see Mac fanboy-ism then go look up these threads:

- things i hate about OS X
- the green button

i'm sure there are more but those are the only two off the top of my head.

-really a glossy display like many screens out there in the world(sry i frgt every monitor with a glossy screen copied apple)
-oooo a cloth, i have one of those bundled in evry electronic device i get that has a screen
-wow it comes with a remote, oh ya just like every other HP pc
-huh a concealed webcam....wait, you mean that apple is the only company in the world to "conceal" a webcam, thats just crazy!
-oh ya, i'm sure that because aluminum has a nice design, widely abundant, and cheap has nothing to do with it.
-and of course, becuase the mouse is made of plastic its copying the crappy mighty mouse

really....hmm ya exactly like the iMac

sorry if i'm being sarcastic, but this is exactly why i hate mac fanboys...i'm not saying i don't like apple or osx, in fact i like both....i just can't stand you annoying little mac fanatics.

[mpw]

all the reviews i've Googled on this machine has included some sort of iMac reference/comparison...

So? Just because the iMac has a media friendly image doesn't mean anybody is copying it, or that it hasn't copied elements from elsewhere either.

[benzslrpee]

that's odd, i don't recall my post saying anything about copying either. all i was saying that it's used as a reference or in comparison :confused:

So? Just because the iMac has a media friendly image doesn't mean anybody is copying it, or that it hasn't copied elements from elsewhere either.

[mpw]

that's odd, i don't recall my post saying anything about copying either. all i was saying that it's used as a reference or in comparison :confused:
Okay, but you were taking part in a tread of conversation by quoting a previous poster who was, in turn quoting a previous poster, the poster you were quoting countering the previous posters argument that the HP was in some way guilty of copying the iMac. You appeared to be countering his argument.

[Kinderhauz]

HP Touchsmart? More like the HP Touch-STUPID!

[mpw]

HP Touchsmart? More like the HP Touch-STUPID!
Care to elaborate on why? Do you have any thoughts on the subject?

[NiroNavro]

Based on cnet.com's review of the touchsmart I'm definitely going to stick with my original plan and that's to get an iMac. Cnet said it would be a better deal and I think I'd have to agree.

[bob vansteel]

Based on cnet.com's review of the touchsmart I'm definitely going to stick with my original plan and that's to get an iMac. Cnet said it would be a better deal and I think I'd have to agree.

i agree...another incredibly big reason why am not even thinking about getting this, is because its a touch screen, BUT Multi-touch screens are right around the corner and are well worth the wait when compared to crappy old single touch screens.

[Aperture]

I don't think the touch interface is developed fully yet for conventional computing. If I had that HP machine (which doesn't look bad) I'd probably only use the touch for media. (like the above poster)

[dukebound85]

i think its really cool and interfaced rather well.

i hope the mouse and keyboard will stay though as another input as the industry moves that direction

[idyll]

Wow, that looks pretty cool actually. I wouldn't mind it as a family computer maybe..

[bbbensen]

I dont know if I would actually use it. It does seem cool though. Its good that they decided to have a keyboard and mouse, instead of just having the touch screen. That will come one day.

[FF_productions]

Apple will respond to this, I'm sure. Not like I'm putting down HP's work of course, I think they did a great job with this. Usually Apple goes above and beyond the competitors but it'll be nice to see how they respond to this.

[Garemz]

Competition is always good, keeps prices down.

[idyll]

Yeah I could see this being used as a kitchen computer or the like.. It's too pretty for that though. Hmm

[ezekielrage_99]

I think computer companies are finally realising that design is as important to functionality and features. HP does a very good job at making PCs but for what I'm after Mac OS X is still what I need.

Still like the Voodoo PCs HP have done another very good job.

[katanna]

Looks cool, I would think about buying one for our church, but I can't find an expected shipping date anywhere... not even a hint of when it will come out...

Matthew

[fleshman03]

Check this out (Cnet review):
http://reviews.cnet.com/desktops/hp-touchsmart-iq506/4505-3118_7-33074466.html?tag=prod.txt.1

Completely lacking the ability to process more than a one finger touch.

How 1990's?

[fluidedge]

dreadful website. dreadful advert. dreadful music. dreadful font.

i'll pass on that one then.

[clevin]

Check this out (Cnet review):
http://reviews.cnet.com/desktops/hp-touchsmart-iq506/4505-3118_7-33074466.html?tag=prod.txt.1

Completely lacking the ability to process more than a one finger touch.

How 1990's?

are you suggesting iMac is 1980's? completely lacking the ability to process any touch:p

[fleshman03]

are you suggesting iMac is 1980's? completely lacking the ability to process any touch:p

Not at all. :rolleyes:

The single touch just reminds me of the old gas station credit card swipe machines. You know, the ones they bought in the 90's and still use today.

Seriously, where the hell is my flying car that I was promised in those "house of the future" shows?

[fluidedge]

Seriously, where the hell is my flying car that I was promised in those "house of the future" shows?

It's coming one day: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7481940.stm

[teflon]

Touch screens seems cool but it's not very practical. On an iPod or iPhone it's useful because of eliminates the need for multiple physical buttons. On a computer, you already have the keyboard and the mouse. Why would you use your finger to tap open an application as opposed to just clicking it? It doesn't make computing any faster and easier, and your arm would get pretty tired after 10 minutes. I've seen those touchscreen PCs. Their screen looks pretty disgusting because it is smeared with fingerprints and whatnots. The "cool" factor will wear off in couple of days, then you're stuck with wiping the monitor 5 times a day to keep it clean, or just stop using the touch functions to save yourself the trouble.

[ReanimationLP]

Not at all. :rolleyes:

The single touch just reminds me of the old gas station credit card swipe machines. You know, the ones they bought in the 90's and still use today.

Seriously, where the hell is my flying car that I was promised in those "house of the future" shows?

We got these machines in at work (Circuit City) They're very sharp looking. Two models to choose from, 1299 with a 320GB HD, Intel Graphics, no TV, or 1499 with 500GB HD, Nvidia 9300, TV card.

Seriously though, multi-touch? You know how much that would have sent the price skyrocketing?

[clevin]

Touch screens seems cool but it's not very practical. On an iPod or iPhone it's useful because of eliminates the need for multiple physical buttons. .

lol, do you really believe that logic? aren't there more physical buttons of a mice + a keyboard on a computer than anything on an iPod?

I will believe your word, when you rise against the touch screen macs if apple were to make one.

[teflon]

lol, do you really believe that logic? aren't there more physical buttons of a mice + a keyboard on a computer than anything on an iPod?

I will believe your word, when you rise against the touch screen macs if apple were to make one.

That's exactly my point. You don't want a million physical buttons on the iPod because of the space issue. Therefore a touchscreen is useful because the controls can change according to the application. Also, touching a screen at the angle that you hold your iPod is not tiring. But a computer already has a keyboard and mouse. It's not like the touch screen is actually replacing anything. It does not add to the function of the computer. Seriously, what does it do that the keyboard and the mouse can't? What practical function does it offer? Have you seen the screens of these things after they have sat in the display section of Best Buy for a while? It's covered with filth and gleaming from the oil of everyone's finger. Instead of poking your screen to open up an application or change the volume, isn't it much easier to just click on the app with your mouse and press on your volume buttons? A tablet would be be a little more useful because you can at least draw on it. You can't do anything for an extended time on these touch screens because your arm would be too sore.

[ezekielrage_99]

dreadful website. dreadful advert. dreadful music. dreadful font.

i'll pass on that one then.

I really hate that font, it reminds me of something out of "A Nightmare Before Xmas".... And the music, less said the better.

[iceblade]

It looks interesting, but I wouldn't use it, and I wouldn't buy it.

I like my mouse. Maybe eventually I will move to a touch screen on my computer, but for now, I prefer my mouse and keyboard. If others want a touch screen, good for them, and maybe they can explain to me why I should use it after they've used it some.

And I prefer OS X. I'm just kinda tired of messing with Windows, and I want to experience something different for a while. That something different is a mac, not using Windows as a primary computer for a while.

[munson]

http://www.hp.com/united-states/campaigns/touchsmart/

Now, there's something fishy here.

First, in all the screenshots and everything, all I see is that crappy UI that seems to only take care of media.

Second, how does this cost only $1100? That simply doesn't make sense for the specifications. 22" HD Touchscreen, 2.0GHz Intel core 2 duo, etc.

What does MacRumors think of this?

For the record, I would like this to not be a fail, because it could revolutionize computers in a big way, and I would LOVE for my iMac to have a touch screen.

[iToaster]

There have been a few threads about this already. The most extensive would be this one (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=497758&highlight=touchsmart).

[munson]

There have been a few threads about this already. The most extensive would be this one (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=497758&highlight=touchsmart).

CURSES! You're right. I would delete this one, but, alas, I do not know how (or if I can, for that matter).

[Tsurisuto]

I have to, for a Windows machine it does look rather attractive! Check it out:

http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/16/hp-announces-the-touchsmart-iq800-series/

[mickbab]

not bad, not bad...shame its not a mac.

[polar-blair]

Wow that is really cool! And its PC what! I hope this will get apple to release a touch screen mac.

Does that run a special OS for the touch screen or is that just a touch based program?

[Tsurisuto]

not bad, not bad...shame its not a mac.

But I love the fact that companies are giving Apple a run for their money. It should force Apple to try even harder. The specs of the unit seem interesting too, shame it runs Windows.

- 25.5-inch 1920 x 1200 touchscreen.
- A TV tuner with remote, integrated webcam.
- HP Pocket Media drive bay.
- Illuminated keyboard.
- A Blu-ray drive / dual-layer burner.
- GeForce 9600M GS chip.

[Thunderbird]

It looks neat, but why would anyone want to have to shift back and forth amongst a touch screen, a keyboard and a mouse to input commands? It's already enough with a keyboard and mouse; adding yet another thing to the mix would seem rather cumbersome. The touch screen itself would probably need frequent cleaning as well.

[minik]

How does it consider as an iMac clone? You meant all-in-one?

As much as I love my non-touchscreen iMac and iPhone 3G, I don't think a touchscreen desktop is ready yet especially home users.

[Aea]

Hmm, if only it could replace the need for a Cintiq, I would be instantly sold :)

[scienide09]

It'll make a perfect parting gift for the 25,000 employees who just received their pink slips as part of HP's takeover of another company.

[MacHappytjg]

lol i just want to point out the mac commerical LOL!

[hashilli]

you think that the touch screen is really for people who are sitting at their workstations trying to complete tasks all day??? Look at the commercials. They show you when it would be better to use the screen.

Not everyone wants to sit one-on-device. If I was up doing things around the house and wanted to turn the volume up, switch songs, change the station... walking over to the screen and touching the controls would be nice.

Or, how about showing off pictures from the last thing I did. A few people in front of the the screen touching away, sliding through pictures, selecting, zooming... That is much cooler and user friendly than me sitting down to "take the helm," mousing around and scrolling with the mouse scroll button. We all know what it feels like when someone else leans in to take control of your mouse/keyboard. Now it's just, ooh that picture, touch...

[fohawk17]

well its nice that a pc is coming to the new age. now if only vista would......

[orpheus1120]

Glossy.

*puke*

[musukosan]

Not everyone wants to sit one-on-device. If I was up doing things around the house and wanted to turn the volume up, switch songs, change the station... walking over to the screen and touching the controls would be nice.

Or, how about showing off pictures from the last thing I did. A few people in front of the the screen touching away, sliding through pictures, selecting, zooming... That is much cooler and user friendly than me sitting down to "take the helm," mousing around and scrolling with the mouse scroll button. We all know what it feels like when someone else leans in to take control of your mouse/keyboard. Now it's just, ooh that picture, touch...

Wouldn't it be easier to just use a remote?

[coffeegonecold]

I want to buy an HP Touchsmart 50 6to run OS X on but I have some questions...

1) Will I be able to replace the 2.1 GHz Dual Core CPU with a better CPU either dual or quad core?

2) Will I be able to install OS X Leopard on it? Even via a hack? If it would work I would buy OS X legally!!!!!!!!!

3) Will OS X Leopard be able to interact with the touchscreen?

4) Will OS X Leopard recognize the rest of the hardware?

Please Answer I Want To Pre-Order,
TheYankees1903 :apple:

1) Not without a lot of work.

2) Yes. I've just finished installing OS X on my TouchSmart IQ507

3) Sort of. Touch seems to be working under Leopard, but there's no way to calibrate it yet, so it's about an inch off.

4) Not really. Ethernet, memory card reader, FireWire, dvd drive, and webcam are about all that work out of the box. Though I think I'm close to getting sound working.