While the overall PC industry is struggling, research firm IDC projects continued growth in so-called “all-in-one” desktops PCs that also serve as entertainment centers. Lenovo is adding new models, hoping to capitalize on that growth.

On Monday, the world’s top PC seller announced four new all-in-one, or AIO, models, including one with a huge 29-inch screen.

The new models feature liquid crystal displays that offer “stunning”  resolution for “maximum entertainment and multimedia value,” Lenovo says. 

IDC forecasts growth in AIOs will reach more than 1.6 million units worldwide in the fourth quarter of this year – up 28 percent for the year-  even as PC sales struggle in face of growing competition from tablets and smartphones.

“IDC expects the market to recover over the remainder of the year with 5.6 million units forecast to be shipped in 2013, representing 7% year-over-year growth for the year,” a recent IDC report said. “By 2017, these devices are expected to reach 9.2 million units shipped worldwide.”

The B750 model packs the 29-inch screen and goes on sale in October at Lenovo.com for $1,199. It won’t reach store shelves until January.

Lenovo says the B750 is the world’s first to pack a 29-inch screen. 

“AIO desktops have become the first-choice option for many consumers seeking a home PC with power and flexibility,” said Jun Ouyang, vice president and general manager of the desktop business unit for the Lenovo Business Group. “Whether as a home entertainment center, a desktop for productivity or a gaming and multimedia device, we believe an AIO should adapt to our customers’ needs quickly and smoothly and offer them a level of performance on par with a traditional desktop.”

Lenovo operates its global executive headquarters in Morrisville.

Product information as provided by Lenovo::

  • A530

The Lenovo A530 AIO desktop is a slim, space-saver that sports a widely adjustable screen, which tilts from -5⁰ to 90⁰ allowing use as a traditional PC or as a flat, table PC using the device’s 10-point multi-touch display for games and entertainment. The 23” Full HD (1920×1080) 16:9 IPS, wide-view display measures only 0.8in/21.5mm thin, at its thickest point, and retains its low-profile even when folded flat on top of the 1.3in/32mm base. The entire device is clad in an all-aluminum chassis for strength and style. The combination of wide viewing angles, a fold-flat screen with multi-mode functionality and its slim profile make the A530 an ideal productivity desktop which can morph into a family entertainment and gaming center with a simple push.

The Lenovo A530 is powered by an up to 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7 processor which provides plenty of power to handle multimedia and games. For storage and sharing, users can choose up to 8GB DDR3 memory, up to 1TB HDD or 1TB SSHD storage with integrated 8GB SSD cache and take advantage of the A530’s full range of connections including integrated Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 6-in-1 card reader and HDMI in/out ports for connecting to other devices. With an integrated DVD reader-writer or Blu-Ray Disc™ and Dolby® certified speakers, keeping up to date with the latest movies and games is convenient as well. The A530 comes loaded with several thoughtful enhancements including the Lenovo Rescue System for file backup, restoration and recovery and the Lenovo Eye Distance System which helps reduce eye strain.

Lenovo A530 will be available starting October at Best Buy, priced from $1,099

B-series:

  • B750

The Lenovo B750 looks distinctive right out of the box, with a 29” Wide Full HD (2560×1080), 21:9 super-widescreen, frameless display supporting IPS wide-view technology, perfect for viewing movies and videos. The viewing experience is further enhanced by the inclusion of a JBL® designed 2.1 speaker system with built-in 20W subwoofer and Dolby® Home Theater®. Lenovo includes other enhancements to optimize the super-widescreen display including Lenovo Split Screen, allowing users to view and work with multiple windows simultaneously and Lenovo Eye Distance. The Lenovo B750 packs up to a speedy 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7 processor and powerful NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX760A 1GB graphics as standard.

The Lenovo B750 is highly adaptable and expandable, and functions equally well as either a powerful PC or multimedia center. With an integrated DVD reader/writer or Blu-Ray Disc™ drive, a wide range of connection options including integrated Bluetooth 4.0 (optional) and Wi-Fi, a 6in1 card reader and optional HDMI out/in (optional) ports, the system makes it easy to manage and access photos, videos, music and more with the added convenience of Lenovo Motion Control which simplifies common tasks using instinctive hand gestures. The space-saving system is unobtrusive at just 11.73 in/298mm thin, while slide open rear panels make expanding memory and storage simple.

Lenovo B750 will be available starting October on Lenovo.com and at retail stores starting January 2014, priced from $1,199

  • B550 / B350

As the latest mainstream additions to the B-series AIOs, the Lenovo B550 and Lenovo B350 pack high performance desktop components into an all-in-one form factor. They also offer a number of features to suit customer demands for devices that can serve readily for entertainment and productivity as well as gaming. They both sport Full HD (1920×1080) IPS, 16:9 widescreen displays with the B550’s 23” frameless display slightly larger than the 21.5” display on the B350. Both devices couple their displays with integrated stereo sound and Dolby® certification, while the B550 adds Dolby Home® Theater® to its JBL®-designed speakers for outstanding audio performance. For gamers and enthusiasts alike, both devices are easily expandable using the sliding back covers for access. The devices are both powered by up to 4th generation Intel® Core™ i7 processors and have 16GB DDR3L memory and up to 2TB HDD storage or SSHD hybrid storage. Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, optical drives and a wide range of connectors including HDMI out round out the package ensuring that the B550/B350 perform well for most entertainment and productivity needs.

Lenovo B530 will be available starting October on Lenovo.com, pricing is TBD.

[LENOVO ARCHIVE: Check out eight years of Lenovo stories as reported in WRALTechWire.]