12 inch HP TouchSmart TM2 with Core ix hardware, now available

Remember the HP TouchSmart TM2 12 inch convertible netbook, the one listed in the post about best 12 inch devices as one of the top picks? Well, as good as it were, it will now get even better, as HP recently announced they’re going to release new versions for the TM2, this time based on the new Arrandale ULV platform.

By the middle of June, we should see these new tablet PCs available for shipping, with Core i3/i5/i7 processors. And considering the performances of the Core i5-520UM CPU benchmarked by me yesterday, I can hardly wait it. Unlike the Asus UL30JT, these TM2s will probably opt for ATI discrete graphic options, so we won’t see Optimus on them, but we might see better graphics performance.

In the meantime, Amazon already listed for pre-order one of these upgraded HPs, the TouchSmart TM2-2050US . Still, specs are kind of messed up right now, as they listed it with the Core i3-330M processor, which is meant for desktops (thanks David for the heads up) a standard laptop processor from the Arrandale platform and comes with a huge for this class 35W TDP (thus making it appropriate for bigger notebooks). I’m sure they actually meant the Core i3-330UM, which will be one of the entry-level CPUs in the Arrandale mobile line, but still faster than the old SU7300. Plus, it will be pretty affordable.

Also, there’s nothing on the discrete graphics listed, but we can see that the device will come with 4GB DDR3 memory and 640 GB hard-drive (5400 rpm). All the other goodies are there, including the brushed aluminum casing, Dolby speakers, top notch connectivity and big battery life. And of course the 12 inch LED-backlit convertible display. All these for $949 is quite a steal if you ask me.

HP TM2 with Arrandale ULV hardware start popping out

Like I said, the device is up for pre-order, but don’t get hasting to buy it just yet, let’s wait for Amazon to tidy those specs. Like i said before, these HPs should be available by the middle or the end of June, so we’ll just have to be patient for a couple of weeks. But all in all, having this line updated is great news, making it even more attractive. Still, i fear for noise and heat-levels, as i don’t want to get my hands or legs burned when using it in tablet mode.

Stay tuned though, I’ll post updated info once i found more about these new Arrandale HP TouchSmart TM2, as they are for sure a subject meant following.

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Tags: 12.1" netbooks, Intel Arrandale platform, tablet pc, ultra portable

Last updated: September 30, 2011 | Published: May 13th, 2010 | See the comments or add yours!