HP OmniBook Ultra Flip Evaluation: An Outstanding Business Laptop, Artificial Intelligence aside
PC manufacturers are aggressively trying to convince consumers that they require an AI-equipped PC. The HP OmniBook Ultra Flip, without a doubt, falls into this category, yet its exceptional features make it a standout, not its AI capabilities.
The OmniBook Ultra Flip is, without a doubt, the best HP laptop I've seen in a long time. Its sleek design, brilliant display, and lightweight build make it perfect for business trips.
However, it's when it starts to perform its intelligent tasks that the magic fades...
HP OmniBook Ultra Flip: The AI Capabilities
The OmniBook Ultra Flip boasts the key characteristic that distinguishes AI PCs from simple spreadsheet tools: a powerful neural processing unit (NPU). This NPU is strong enough to meet the requirements for the Windows Copilot+ label, implying that it will eventually receive AI features such as the controversial 'Recall' when Microsoft rolls it out.
Currently, users have access to the standard Windows Copilot and HP's AI Companion app. The HP app, allegedly based on the same technology as ChatGPT, allows users to pose general queries, ask about PC optimization, and most intriguingly of all, create libraries of documents that can be analyzed using HP's AI assistant.
The PC assistant, alas, is hit or miss. When I requested it to "track my webcam to my face," the AI assistant reported an error while processing the request. However, it did manage to lower screen brightness and adjust HD settings when requested.
The library analysis feature initially seemed incredibly useful... until I asked it about a U.K. telecoms regulator report, which it "distorted" mistake-laden figures that were not present in the original report.
Worse still, this AI Companion app is entirely useless without an internet connection. This suggests that it is not truly using the NPU but instead processing the data in the cloud, like Windows Copilot or ChatGPT, which are both more versatile options. If a PC manufacturer puts in the effort to create their AI assistant, it should offer something unique. HP's offering barely meets the mark.
There are additional AI features, such as live captions for videos and webcam-related tools, but none of these are truly groundbreaking. This is an AI PC where the AI is one of the least impressive aspects.
HP OmniBook Ultra Flip: The Design
So, if you're not buying this laptop for its AI capabilities, why would you buy it?
The design, for one, is exceptional. The all-metal casing is available in a midnight blue color that exudes sophistication, and it's remarkably compact. Initially, you may be concerned that there is only a single USB-C port on the entire device, where the charger would normally sit. However, there are two more hidden USB-C ports on the rear corners, which are neatly angled at 45 degrees.
As its name suggests, the device can be flipped into a full tablet mode, which is made more practical by the included stylus. That said, don't get too excited about this. Windows 11 still performs poorly as a tablet operating system, with a severe lack of touch-optimized apps. The stylus also suffers from input lag, making writing on the screen frustrating.
Despite its limitations as a tablet, the screen is excellent for its size. The 2,880 x 1800 resolution is ideal for the 14-inch display, which scrolls smoothly at 120Hz. It's an OLED display, as well, offering brilliant colors and a striking contrast. Various color modes allow you to adjust the intensity if you're reading a lengthy document or drafting a report.
The backlit keyboard is a standout feature as well. With ample spacing between keys and a satisfying depth of travel, it's one of those keyboards where you'll find yourself typing at full speed almost instantly. In addition, the large touchpad provides precise navigation, making this a laptop that's suited for bustling business trips.
The integrated 9-megapixel webcam is perfect for business meetings, complete with sharp resolution and a well-balanced image. The included Poly Camera Pro app offers options for incorporating enjoyable features like graphic overlays with your name, job title, contact information, and more.
The webcam also excels at monitoring your presence, turning the screen off the moment you look away from the display and turning it back on as soon as you return your gaze. This helps conserve battery life and maintain privacy. Additionally, there's a slide-over privacy shield to shield the webcam from accidentally capturing images when you don't want it to.
Overall, an extraordinary amount of thought and consideration has been put into the design of the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip, setting it apart from ordinary laptops.
HP OmniBook Ultra Flip: The Internal Components
HP hasn't skimped on the internals of this OmniBook, either.
The Intel Core Ultra 7 processor strikes a reasonable balance between power and efficiency. It racked up a Geekbench 6 benchmark score of 2,487 (single-core) and 9,132 (multi-core), placing it between high-performance workstation laptops and low-cost consumer machines. You should be able to get a full workday out of the battery if you're not exerting it with demanding tasks, but the compact charger isn't too bothersome to carry around.
However, gaming performance remains lackluster. The integrated Intel graphics aren't capable of delivering smooth frame rates in even moderately demanding games.
There's a 1TB SSD in my review unit, but more budget-friendly choices with 512GB are available as well. The device comes with 16GB of RAM, which is on the borderline of what's acceptable for premium laptops, but it's uncommon to find 32GB in anything other than heavy-duty workstations.
HP OmniBook Ultra Flip Review
The AI in PCs is largely talk without action at the moment. However, once Windows' built-in recall feature, named All-Remembering Windows Recall, rolls out, it might change things. As of now, the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip's AI features leave a lot to be desired.
Regardless of its AI limitations, the laptop is known for its sleek design and impressive performance, making it a fantastic choice for business executives who need a portable device. It belongs to the elite group of Windows ultraportables.
Priced at $1,600 (£1,600 in the UK), the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip is reasonably priced, and even without an AI assistant, it's clear that it's a well-made machine.
Despite its AI capabilities falling short of expectations, the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip still caters to tech-savvy consumers seeking innovation. Its AI-equipped tech, such as the AI Companion app and NPU, offer potential for future improvements.
The HP OmniBook Ultra Flip's design is a testament to its innovation, appealing to the consumer market with its sleek all-metal casing, compact size, and versatile features like the included stylus and flip design.
