First it was the future, then it was killed off before returning from the dead as a business only device and now it has finally been released to the public. We are of course talking about the HP Slate 500, which is finally available to buy.
Naturally, the full specs have also been confirmed. The 8.9in device will be powered by a 1.86GHz Intel Atom Z540 with 2GB DDR2 while the pairing of an Intel GMA 500 and Broadcom Crystal HD chip will take care of the visuals. Storage will be handled by a 64GB SSD with the option of expanding via an SD card, though connectivity options will be limited to 802.11n WiFi, Bluetooth and USB 2.0.
As mentioned, the capacitive multitouch screen is just shy of 9in across and runs at a resolution of 1,024,600px. HP has also included a Wacom digitizer and digital pen, which should help the business folks when it comes to inputting text. Being a business device, the Slate obviously runs the full-fat version of Windows 7 Professional, though there won't be any custom touch interface added to the OS.
Of course, you'll also get a 3MP outward facing camera and an inward facing VGA webcam for video conferencing.
Unfortunately - though perhaps unsurprisingly, given the form factor - the power is provided by a 2-cell 30WHr battery, and while the manufacturer doesn't give any details, we can't imagine that such a small power pack will provide much run time.
Despite having a display under 9in, the Slate still tips the scales at 680g, which is the same as the 10in WiFi only iPad.
Should all of these specs tickle your fancy, the Slate 500 can be purchased now from HP for $799 (£623 inc VAT). While the price is quite steep, the manufacturer is at least bundling in a digital pen, docking station (replete with HDMI-out) and a 'portfolio', which we're guessing is just some sort of case or sleeve.
