HP to launch Sprout PC next week

Following its split into two divisions, Hewlett-Packard plans to launch its first desktop computing venture - the HP Sprout next week, according to reports.

Earlier this month, HP announced it would split itself into two separate companies - one focused on PCs and Printers and the other on corporate hardware, software and services (See: Hewlett-Packard to split corporate hardware and PC and printer businesses).

The Sprout is unique as it incorporates a 3D scanner and an inbuilt projector. The device would come from the company's computing and printing division.

The Sprout has been developed by a former Apple executive, Eric Monsef. A report from Re/code, said Sprout would consist of three main parts: ''a flat touch-enabled surface, a large flat screen display similar to HP's line of Pavilion desktops and an overhead assembly that includes a 3D scanner and projector.''

The Sprout seemed to have eliminated the traditional keyboard for input.

The Sprout would use the projector to display images on the flat surface allowing their  manipulation by users. Users would be able to move things around on the flat surface, resize and even change colors using finger or stylus input.

Users would also be able to import images from real life by placing an object on the flat surface to be scanned by the Sprout and then incorporated into the work area.

The Sprout, a Windows based device, would likely have future support for Google's Chrome OS. The HP Sprout is aimed at businesses and professionals.