What you need to know
- HP just refreshed its Envy laptop lineup, including new models of its Envy x360 (14inch), Envy x360 (15.6-inch), and Envy 17.
- The Envy x360 (15.6-inch) is the flagship of the family, and it is the first IMAX Enhanced PC.
- To earn an IMAX Enhanced certification, systems have to meet a set of standards, such as supporting a taller aspect ratio and meeting thresholds for color, brightness, and sonic fidelity.
- The Envy x360 14-inch is available now starting at $850.
- The Envy x360 15.6-inch (from $850) and Envy 17 (from $1,150) launch in April and May, respectively.
HP just revamped its Envy lineup of laptops for 2023. The PCs are now powered by 13th Gen Intel Core CPUs. The Envy x360 14-inch, Envy x360 15.6-inch, and Envy 17 have all been refreshed.
The Envy x360 15.6-inch is an IMAX Enhanced PC, which promises an immersive viewing experience for supported content.
If you haven't heard of an IMAX Enhanced PC, don't worry. The HP Envy x360 (15.6") is the first PC to ever hold the certification. Somewhat similar to how Intel Evo works, IMAX Enhanced PCs have to meet a set of standards. Most notably, any IMAX Enhanced PC needs to be able to show content created for IMAX in a tall aspect ratio. Only a small group of titles support the format at launch, all of which are on Disney Plus. The IMAX Enhanced website breaks down the standard in more detail and lists all the titles that support it.
"IMAX Enhanced certified devices meet strict performance standards across viewing mode, resolution, color, brightness, contrast, and sonic fidelity," reads the site.
"Defined by a certification committee of IMAX, DTS and Hollywood’s leading technical specialists, IMAX Enhanced certified devices deliver IMAX signature picture and DTS immersive sound in the home."
HP improved the screen-to-body ratios of both Envy x360 laptops and upgraded their webcams as well. Those cameras include manual privacy shutters and automatic lock and wake features for security.
The Envy x360 14-inch is already available with a starting price of $850. The Envy x360 15.6-inch launches in April with a starting price of $950. Those looking for the Envy 17 will have to wait until May and pay at least $1,150.
