HP Elite X3: The most interesting phone you don't need (hands-on)

What if there was one device to replace them all? What if you no longer needed a laptop or a desktop to get work done? That's what HP is trying to provide with the new Elite X3 phone.

The HP Elite X3 is a high-end Windows phone built with serious business in mind.

HP Elite x3 Review

It may be all work and no play, but the $699 HP Elite x3 is far from dull. It's the flagship Windows 10 Mobile device for the year, and it's potentially a mobile worker's dream when supported by the right line-of-business apps. In the hands of the right IT department, it can be a clean, secure mobility solution that replaces corporate-liable phones, tablets, and thin-client terminals with one set of devices. The phone isn't going to appeal to individuals, though, as it lacks many apps and experiences average users want. Physical FeaturesThe Elite x3 ($549.99 at Amazon) is a very large phone. It measures 6.26 by 3.29 by 0.31 inches (HWD) and weighs a hefty 6.84 ounces. It has a striking 6-inch, 2,560-by-1,440 screen. Below the screen, there's a chrome bottom bezel with a stylized speaker grille highlighted by a small Bang & Olufsen logo. An 8-megapixel camera, which includes an iris scanner for Windows Hello facial recognition, sits above the screen. The phone is water (3 feet ...

The HP Elite x3 is an unusual business-focused phone that could really pay off for imaginative IT departments.

Big, clear screen; Easily IT managed; Integrates well with Microsoft Cloud and Salesforce; Turns into a desktop or laptop with Continuum

Not as well supported by third parties as Android or iOS device; Continuum only works with a limited subset of apps; Main camera experienced focus problems in testing

HP Elite x3 hands-on review review

HP Elite x3 review: Yep, this was the last great Windows phone

Workspace virtualized apps are something special; Desk Dock provides an excellent Continuum experience; Two (not one!) ways to log in via Windows Hello;

Extremely high price out of reach for most consumers; Workspace interface could use some ease-of-use refinement; Mediocre camera;