New HP Slate 2 is more like the old one

HP has already two misses in the tablet segment with last year’s HP Slate 500 and this year’s WebOS powered TouchPad. Unfortunately HP seems not to have learned anything from these experiences as it just released the HP Slate 2, a small update to the slow Atom powered Windows 7 tablet.

So what can you expect from the late 2011 HP Slate 2 tablet? Slightly updated specs (new Atom CPU from the Oak Trail series), 30 more minutes of battery life, optional 3G Gobi chip and $100 shaved off from the very high price. Even if HP says the Slate 2 is for business users I’m sure we all agree that besides x86 compatibility and the additional security features like TPM there’s nothing here to appease them as performance will always be an issue with Atom processors, not meant for intensive tasks. Let’s take a look at specs:

HP Slate 2 quick specs

• 8.9″ display (1024×600)
• N-Trig DuoSense digitizer for stylus input
• Intel Atom Oak Trail Z760, 1.5GHz
• 2GB of RAM
• 1.52lbs (0.69kg)
• 32 and 64 GB SSD models
• Windows 7 Professional 32-bit
• Optional 3G powered by Gobi (CDMA or GSM)
• WIFI A,B,G,N
• 1x USB 2.0
• 30Whr battery
• $699 starting price

As you can see from this list there’s nothing exciting here. There are a few things to be said about software, as the HP Slate 2 comes preloaded with Skype and the Swype keyboard that’s pretty popular among touchscreen users (I hate it, but that’s a matter of taste).

HP Slate 2 also comes with a stylus

You’ll be able to get a new accessory for $79: the Bluetooth keyboard and case that does exactly what the Zagg Zaggmate iPad keyboard does, but adds significantly more bulk while providing a special compartment for the HP stylus. A normal dock accessory for desktop use will be available.

The optional case with Bluetooth keyboard (not pictured here)

Here’s a small video preview from one of HP’s officials: