HP unveils Split x2 Windows 8 hybrid with 13.3-inch display
HP has unveiled Split x2 Windows 8 tablet/ laptop hybrid, similar to the HP Envy x2 introduced last year.
The Split x2 is an upgrade on the Envy x2 in many ways. Instead of the Atom processor, the x2 comes with an option of 3rd Generation Intel Core i3 or i5 processors. The 11.6-inch has become a 13.3-inch screen, though the resolution remains the same at 1366×768. HP Split x2 comes with up to 128GB SSD storage.
Also included are Beats Audio with dual-speakers, 8-megapixel rear shooter and a front camera with full-HD video recording capabilities, just like Envy x2. Disappointingly, the RAM stays the same at 2GB, though users have the option to upgrade. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but no NFC, which is present in the Envy x2.
Like the Envy x2, the Split x2 comes with a keyboard dock that includes a MicroSD reader, Combo audio jack, 1 USB 3.0 port, 1 USB 2.0 port, HDMI port and SD card slot. Interestingly, the dock also includes 500GB of hard disk storage, which makes it perfect for storing your media.
“Customers want to access and share content anywhere, anytime, on any internet connected device–and they expect those connections to be seamless,” said Ron Coughlin, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer PCs, HP. “The HP SlateBook x2 and the HP Split x2 are next-generation devices and the latest examples of our continued commitment to evolving the computing experience by providing the flexibility necessary for customers to be productive at home, at the office or on the go.”
The HP Split x2 will join the HP Envy x2 and the Android-based SlateBook x2 - announced alongside the HP Split x2 – as part of HP’s detachable PC portfolio.
Split x2 is expected to be available in the United States in August with a base price of $799.99. No word yet on India price and availability.
HP Split x2 specifications
- 13.1-inch 1366×768 display
- Intel Core i3 or i5 processors
- Up to 128GB SSD storage, Plus 500GB storage in keyboard dock
- 2GB RAM
- 8-megapixel rear camera
- 1080p front-facing camera
- MicroSD reader, Combo audio jack, 1xUSB 3.0, 1xUSB 2.0, SD Card slot, HDMI (in keyboard dock)
- 802.11a/b/g/n + Bluetooth
- Beats Audio with dual-speakers
- 9.05×13.38×0.92 inches
- 1.90kg








The Android 4.2 Camera app now lets you snap pictures in any direction vertically or horizontally, similar to Apple’s panorama feature added in iOS 6. However, according to Google, the Street View-inspired panoramic view isn’t restricted to vertical/ horizontal panoramas likes its iOS counterpart, but can generate 360 degree views.
Android 4.2 now adds Swype-like functionality built-in to the Android keyboard. You can type messages faster by simply gliding your fingers across the letters without having to worry about spacing. The keyboard also comes with SwiftKey-like auto-prediction that anticipates the next word as you type. The OS also claims better voice-to-text capabilities. The native Android dictionary claims to offer more accurate and relevant performance.
Android 4.2 brings support for wireless display which allows you to share or stream any content including movies and YouTube videos from your phone or tablet to an HDTV. All you need is a wireless display adapter that needs to be connected to any HDMI-enabled TV. You’ll then be able to view mirror images of your device on a bigger screen. The feature resembles Apple’s AirPlay that lets you wirelessly stream content between devices.
Access the notification shade by swiping down from the top of the screen to see all your notifications in one place including missed calls, reminders and more. Apart from just accessing them, you can also see expand them to view their details and choose options to accept or decline them.