HP unveils reclining PC

SAN FRANCISCO - Computers are increasingly coming in all shapes and sizes. Now there is even a reclining computer.

HP announced the new form factor Monday, saying that it believed the ability to lay the screen almost horizontal would be eagerly welcomed by consumers and companies such as hotels and other customer-facing businesses.

Analysts said HP was hoping that the devices could help the world’s top computer maker fend off the challenge posed by Apple’s iPad, which is being widely adopted by businesses such as hotels, car dealers and others who like to share online information with customers.

Part of HP’s TouchSmart line, the new devices feature 58-cm touch screens that can recline to a 60-degree angle and be swiveled from side to side. Both the consumer and business versions of the device run on Windows 7.

The consumer device goes on sale later this week with prices starting at $899. The business version will be available in May.

“As a leader in touch computing, HP has made each iteration of the TouchSmart PC more intuitive, resourceful and fun for users,” said HP executive James Mouton. “The latest generation is no exception with a new design that makes it easier and more comfortable to use, and it allows businesses to integrate the TouchSmart where convenience, space constraints and appearance matter.”

HP is expected to unveil its own line of tablet computers within weeks. The devices will run the company’s WebOs operating system that it acquired as part of its $1.6-billion purchase of Palm last year.