New Arrival

HP Unveils Keyboard-Based AI PC as Desktop Computing Goes Mobile

HP Inc. unveiled the EliteBoard G1a Next Gen AI PC at CES 2026, marking what the company described as a fundamental reimagining of desktop computing for the era of hybrid work. The device, which HP characterized as the world's first full AI PC built into a keyboard form factor, aims to address growing enterprise demand for computing hardware that adapts to increasingly fluid work environments.

The EliteBoard G1a integrates a complete desktop-class PC—including an AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processor delivering over 50 TOPS of neural processing power—into a keyboard chassis measuring just 12mm thick and weighing 750 grams, according to HP. The device functions as a standalone Copilot+ PC that connects to any display, fundamentally changing the traditional desktop paradigm by making high-performance computing fully portable.

"Work is being redesigned in real time—where it happens, how it happens, and what tools employees need to stay productive," Guayente Sanmartin, Senior Vice President and Division President of Commercial Systems & Displays Solutions at HP Inc., said in a statement. "HP's focus is to remove the friction and complexity that slows people down and turn emerging AI into a real advantage."

Enterprise demand drives form factor innovation

The announcement comes as enterprises grapple with evolving workplace dynamics that require computing infrastructure to support both traditional desk-based work and more mobile, collaborative scenarios. HP cited findings from its 2025 Work Relationship Index showing that only 44 percent of workers believe their technology fits their working style, the company said.

The EliteBoard G1a represents HP's response to this challenge by collapsing the desktop form factor into something that can move between home offices, corporate workspaces, and shared collaboration areas without sacrificing performance. The device includes dual microphones and speakers integrated into the keyboard housing, eliminating the need for separate peripherals in many scenarios.

From a specifications standpoint, the EliteBoard G1a delivers what HP characterized as desktop-level AI performance through its AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processor, which provides over 50 TOPS of neural processing capability for local AI workloads. This positions the device to handle Copilot+ PC workloads including real-time transcription, translation, and AI-assisted content generation without relying on cloud connectivity, according to the company.

Security and manageability for IT organizations

For IT decision-makers, HP emphasized the device's security architecture, which includes HP Wolf Security for Business with hardware-enforced protection against firmware attacks. The company noted that the security framework has been designed to defend against emerging quantum computing threats, a consideration that is becoming increasingly relevant for enterprise security planning.

The EliteBoard also features a physical security tether and lockable cable option, addressing concerns about securing highly portable computing assets in shared or public work environments. HP characterized the device as an EPEAT 2.0 Gold Registered Product, which may factor into purchasing decisions for organizations with sustainability mandates.

The device incorporates HP Smart Sense and AMD's Auto State Management technology to dynamically adjust performance, cooling, and battery optimization based on workload and environment, the company said. An optional built-in battery configuration extends the device's utility for scenarios where desk-based power connectivity is inconsistent or unavailable.

Premium display technology complements new form factor

Alongside the EliteBoard announcement, HP introduced the Series 7 Pro 4K Monitor featuring what the company described as the world's first Neo:LED desktop display technology. The 31.5-inch monitor delivers IPS black panel performance with a 2,700:1 contrast ratio—double that of traditional IPS displays—and includes factory color calibration for professional creative workflows, according to HP.

The monitor provides 140W power delivery through Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, enabling single-cable solutions for the EliteBoard and other compatible devices. HP emphasized the monitor's 40Gbps data throughput capability as a key feature for professionals working with large files or multiple high-resolution displays.

Market positioning and availability

The EliteBoard G1a and Series 7 Pro 4K Monitor are expected to be available through HP.com beginning in March 2026, the company said. HP did not disclose pricing information in the announcement but indicated that pricing details would be provided closer to the availability date.

The EliteBoard G1a received recognition as a CES 2026 Innovation Award Honoree prior to its formal unveiling at the trade show. HP positioned the device as part of its broader strategy to reimagine workplace computing for hybrid and distributed work environments, emphasizing flexibility and AI-powered productivity as key differentiators.

The announcement reflects broader industry trends toward more flexible computing form factors as enterprises seek to equip knowledge workers with tools that support multiple working styles and locations. Whether the keyboard-PC form factor gains traction in enterprise environments will likely depend on IT organizations' willingness to support a departure from traditional desktop and laptop paradigms, particularly regarding asset management, security policies, and user support considerations.