Banking on a string of hybrid (inter-changeable usage as a laptop and tablet PC) devices and traditional netbook launches, computer-maker Hewlett-Packard (HP) is targeting the business and retail consumers.

Some of the computers launched in the retail segment would be on Google’s Android operating system.

According to Ketan Patel, Director – Consumer Category, business users are increasingly looking to restrict the number of devices they carry. As a result, HP has decided to launch the “hybrid devices” that can double up both as laptops and tablet PCs.

“We would be observing the trend of how demand for hybrid devices shape. Depending on the demand we will opt for the categories,” Patel told reporters on the sidelines of the launch of nine devices by the company. Three of the new launches were in the hybrid category

According to Patel, HP did not see the threat of large-screen mobile phones and phablets (mobiles having a screen size between 5.5 inches and 7 inches) derailing the demand for hybrid devices. The category, he said, would have its own set of customers.

“Each device category, be it a phablet or a hybrid, will address different customer needs. As such we do not see any threat (from phablets) at the moment,” he said.

Online Sales

The company had almost a month back started online sales through its website  www.hpshopping.in . It would help HP overcome the limitations of stocking only a select range of products in standalone shops and retail stores, Patel said.

HP at present has nearly 300 standalone stores in India. It also sells products through online shopping sites and large format / multi-brand retail stores.

 

abhishek.l@thehindu.co.in

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