The Touchsmart tx2 lets users select and drag files with their fingertips. HP's Touchsmart machines were desktops created as all-purpose family machines to check e-mail, leave messages, listen to music and view photos.

"Breezing through websites and enjoying photos or video at the tap, whisk or flick of a finger is an entirely new way to enjoy digital content on a notebook PC," said Ted Clark, the manager of HP's notebook group, in a .

The tablet also has a standard keyboard and mouse, and a digital pen to take notes directly onto the screen.

Early reviews of the machine are favorable. called it a "multi-touch wonder." magazine reported that while the touch screen isn't as user friendly as the iPhone, the experience is pleasant. And praised the laptop's swivel display, "which lets you caress your snaps and flick through tunes without having to resort to the keyboard."

The new laptop comes at a time when HP is doing remarkably well, given the economic climate. HP's stock went up 14.5 percent Tuesday, reported. The company also announced that fourth-quarter and 2009 results would be better than expected, according to the report.