HP Download Store Now Open for Consumers and Small Businesses

Features hundreds of software titles, games and services

PALO ALTO, Calif., HP today introduced the beta version of the HP Download Store, which serves as a virtual marketplace for consumers and small business owners to conveniently purchase and download the most popular software, games and HP services.

The HP Download Store, powered by Digital River, was created to help customers find the ideal software or services to enhance and complete their computing experience from the comfort of their homes or offices.

“HP customers now have instant access to more than 200 software titles and games from one trusted source without spending extra time searching, waiting for shipping or visiting a retail outlet,” said Irv Christy, worldwide marketing manager, Attach, HP. “HP also offers monthly subscriptions of its premium services – a low-cost and easy alternative for users who want access to services without an annual contract.”

Must-have software, games and services with the click of a mouse

The HP Download Store offers a wide variety of the latest titles from leading brands including Microsoft, Adobe, Norton from Symantec and Roxio, along with popular games like Star Trek Online Deluxe Edition and James Cameron’s AVATAR: The Game. HP brings its customers the best titles in each category. Other offerings include:

* Software titles ideal for the distinct characteristics of HP Mini netbooks
* A two-year download option allowing users to reinstall software as needed with no disks to store and eliminating package waste

Monthly subscription services to fit every need and budget

The HP Download Store gives users access to six pay-as-you-go support and collaboration services. Ideal for cost-conscious consumers and small business owners, this subscription model provides quick access to HP’s premium support and collaboration services without an annual contract. The services are supported by North America-based HP technicians and available for HP and non-HP branded PCs. Services include:

* HP Virtual Rooms let users host online meetings with integrated audio,(1) video and desktop sharing for as low as $12.95 per month. HP Virtual Rooms are a cost-effective way to connect with remote customers and business colleagues without the hassle and cost of travel.
* HP SmartFriend Assistance answers all hardware and software questions with just one phone call.
* HP Performance Tune-up Service puts users in direct contact with an advisor who remotely conducts a performance overhaul to remove viruses and unnecessary software and boost overall PC performance.

Ongoing special offers

Through the month of May, the HP Download Store is offering all customers $20 off an order of $50 or more (use promo code LAUNCH20). This offer is valid for all software titles, games and services. Twenty additional deals will appear throughout the month.

Access to software and HP’s premium services is available at the HP Download Store: www.hpdownloadstore.com.

More information about the HP Download Store is available at www.hp.com/personalagain.

About HP

HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world’s largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure to solve customer problems. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com/.

(1) A VOIP Headset is required.

Digital River is a registered trademark of Digital River, Inc.

This news advisory contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, the results of HP and its consolidated subsidiaries could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations; any statements concerning expected development, performance or market share relating to products and services; any statements regarding anticipated operational and financial results; any statements of expectation or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include macroeconomic and geopolitical trends and events; the execution and performance of contracts by HP and its customers, suppliers and partners; the achievement of expected operational and financial results; and other risks that are described in HP’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2010 and HP’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to HP’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009. HP assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.