After an initial surge, the buzz surrounding digital photo frames seems to have quickly evaporated. Perhaps eco-friendly consumers are worried about running costs, or perhaps such an electrical device needs to provide more functionality.
If the latter's a problem, HP should have you covered with its all-new DreamScreen. The photo frame-like device, pictured below, is to be available in two models - the 10.2in DreamScreen 100 and 13.3in DreamScreen 130 - and packs in all sorts of PC-like experiences.
The piano-black frame houses a display providing a resolution of 800x480 pixels. Bringing that to life is 802.11b/g wireless or wired Ethernet connectivity, allowing the device to access photos, music (MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV) or video (MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, H.264) from any networked PC.
In addition to networking support, the DreamScreen also provides access to the thousands of Internet radio stations and music streaming services such as Pandora. There's a built-in speaker for audio, but those wanting to add a little more punch to their sound will be able to do so via the unit's built-in audio-out connector.
Want social networking support thrown in too? The DreamScreen has you covered, for the most part, as HP has equipped the unit with a couple of customised software applications designed for simplified access to popular sites such as Facebook and HP's own photo-sharing service, Snapfish. And yes, the Facebook app does provide status updates.
On top of all that, there are weather forecasts, a built-in calendar and alarm clock, and 2GB of built-in memory. Those needing extra storage can expand the amount of available space using flash memory cards or USB drives.
HP reckons a couple of DreamScreens scattered around the house could be the perfect accompaniment to your PC, and it's looking like a smart little device. Our initial concerns, however, are the lack of a built-in browser and the omission of a touchscreen display.
If you're interested in trying one out, though, you'll find the DreamScreen 100 hitting U.S. stores today priced at $249, while the bigger DreamScreen 130 will arrive this fall priced at $299. No news on UK availability or pricing yet.
