Toshiba announces Windows 8 laptops and hybrid PCs

Toshiba UK has announced its Windows 8 PC collection comprising three new models specifically designed for Microsoft's new operating system (OS).

The computer manufacturer also said some existing laptops will be sold with Windows 8 pre-installed, while some other models currently running Windows 7 can be upgraded to the new OS.

Read more: Windows 8 news | Windows 8 reviews

The three new models in the Windows 8 collection comprise the convertible Satellite U920t Ultrabook, the Satellite P845t touchscreen multimedia laptop and the Satellite U940 -Ultrabook.

All have multi-gesture touchscreens, allowing users to swipe, pinch and zoom through applications and documents, and feature full-size keyboards and touchpads with Windows 8 gesture support for a more traditional PC experience.

The Satellite U920t which will cost around £899 "combines the functionality of a fully-featured Ultrabook with the touchscreen and usability of a tablet". The 12.5in five-point touchscreen is made from scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass.

Tucked away underneath the screen is a full-size keyboard and touchpad giving the option of a more traditional PC experience, while the screen's angle can be adjusted to best suit the user.

The P845t is the first 14in model in Toshiba's Satellite P-series entertainment and gaming laptops. It uses a TruBrite capacitive touchscreen with multi-finger support allows users to swipe, drag documents between folders.

Users can also pinch to zoom in and out of pictures, or select applications by tapping the screen. It will cost around £699 and has integrated harman/kardon stereo speakers and Slip Stream technology.

The £549 U940 uses the latest Intel processors for and is 20.9mm thick and weighs 1.79kg. Connectors include HDMI, Ethernet LAN, SD Card and two USB 3.0 ports, including Sleep-and-Charge and Sleep-and-Music functionality.

Toshiba's Ready for Windows 8 include the Satellite C and L-series, the entertainment and gaming Qosmio and Satellite P-series, and the LX830 all-in-one PC.

They will all be available pre-installed with Windows 8 following its general release on 26 October. Additionally, Toshiba laptops currently running Windows 7 can also be upgraded to feature Windows 8.