HP unveiled its latest innovation at CES 2024: the Spectre x360 14. This premium 2-in-1 laptop marks a significant departure from its predecessors, not just in terms of design, but also in its focus on AI integration. We had the chance to go hands-on with the Spectre x360 14, and here’s our first impression of this intriguing glimpse into the future of laptops.
Key Highlights:
- Sleek Design & OLED Display: The Spectre x360 14 boasts a stunning 14-inch OLED display with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a new wider design.
- AI-Enhanced Performance: Powered by Intel’s Meteor Lake chip, the laptop leverages AI for tasks like automatic framing in video calls and privacy alerts.
- Enhanced Audio & Webcam: Enjoy immersive sound with the new Polyphonic Speaker System and improved video quality with a 9MP webcam.
- Portability & Convenience: Weighing in at 3.2 pounds, the Spectre x360 14 remains portable, while features like a collapsible USB-A port and fingerprint sensor in the power button add convenience.
- Limited Ports: One major drawback is the limited port selection, with only two Thunderbolt 4 ports and a single USB-A port.
A Feast for the Eyes:
The first thing that strikes you about the Spectre x360 14 is its stunning visual appeal. The 14-inch OLED display is a true marvel, boasting vibrant colors, deep blacks, and razor-sharp clarity. The 16:10 aspect ratio provides extra vertical space for browsing and working with documents, while the wider design feels more immersive for watching movies or playing games. Gone are the bezels of yesteryear, replaced by a near edge-to-edge display that truly puts the picture front and center.
The Power of AI:
But the Spectre x360 14 is more than just a pretty face. Under the hood lies Intel’s 14th Gen Meteor Lake chip, which comes packed with AI capabilities. These features are subtly woven into the user experience, offering helpful enhancements without feeling intrusive. For example, the automatic framing feature in video calls keeps you in focus even as you move around, while the privacy alert lets you know if someone is peeking at your screen. These AI-powered features are still in their early stages, but they offer a glimpse of the potential for AI to transform the way we interact with our laptops.
Enhanced Audio & Visuals:
HP hasn’t neglected the traditional multimedia experience either. The Spectre x360 14 boasts a new Polyphonic Speaker System that delivers rich, immersive sound, perfect for enjoying movies, music, or even video games. The webcam has also been upgraded to a 9MP sensor, ensuring clearer and sharper video calls.
Portability & Convenience:
Despite its larger display, the Spectre x360 14 remains surprisingly portable. Tipping the scales at just 3.2 pounds, it’s light enough to carry around all day without feeling weighed down. HP has also added some thoughtful features to enhance convenience, such as a collapsible USB-A port that tucks away neatly when not in use and a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button for quick and secure logins.
A Minor Hiccup:
While the Spectre x360 14 ticks most boxes, there is one area where it falls short: port selection. With only two Thunderbolt 4 ports and a single USB-A port, connecting multiple peripherals can be a bit of a juggling act. For users who rely heavily on external devices, this could be a deal-breaker.
Final Thoughts:
The HP Spectre x360 14 is a bold step forward for HP and a fascinating glimpse into the future of AI-powered laptops. Its stunning OLED display, AI-enhanced features, and premium design make it a compelling choice for creative professionals and early adopters alike. However, the limited port selection might give some users pause. Overall, the Spectre x360 14 is a laptop that pushes boundaries and sparks excitement about what’s to come in the world of mobile computing.
