Hewlett Packard have announced a new range of tablet computers they are calling the DreamScreen range. They are sleek, stylish and functional and most surprising of all they aren’t massively expensive. These tablets look like a clever blend of functionality and they could free you from your traditional PC.

The idea behind the DreamScreen is to provide you with a device that works as a digital photo display and also allows you to share photos and chat with friends on Facebook. It supports music and video and can also access various internet radio stations. You can also check the time, date and weather on the device and in addition to the touch controls around the border there is a small remote control.

You can imagine having one of these in the kitchen instead of a portable TV or radio. They come in two varieties, the DreamScreen 100 is 10.2 inches and costs $249 and the DreamScreen 130 is 13.3 inches and costs $299. Both devices can store 2 GB and you can easily connect USB devices or flash memory cards. They also support Wi-Fi via 802.11 b or g and you can drag and drop files from your network to the tablet.

The advantage of a device like this is that it saves you having to boot up your PC. However the functionality is pretty limited. It doesn’t allow full web browsing access and the lack of touch screen technology is disappointing. It just looks like it should be a touch screen device. It also looks great from the front view but not so much from the back or sides.

HP have been quick to get this out and it seems like a step in the right direction but until we see what the Apple tablet delivers in terms of functionality I won’t be rushing out to buy one of these. On the other hand I can guarantee the Apple tablet will be a lot more expensive than this. Check out the YouTube demo and make your own mind up.