HP's futuristic Sprout 3D computer lands in Australia

Hewlett-Packard is finally bringing its 3D personal computer to Australia, announcing the local release of the Sprout on 5 October.

HP Sprout is a fully featured desktop computer that acts as an input portal to the digital world for physical three-dimensional items. The science fiction-like machine features a Texas Instruments 3D camera and projector attached to the top of the monitor that can scan physical objects and interpret hand gestures for interaction with software.

The Sprout desktop computer has been available in the USA since last October, wowing partners at the vendor's Global Partner Conference earlier this year.

The machine will have a starting price of $3,999 in Australia upon the 5 October launch. Only 17 Harvey Norman stores will have channel rights for the Sprout, with larger "named account" customers able to purchase directly from Hewlett-Packard.

Regardless of the method of sale, every Sprout purchase will include a "white glove set up service", which will see a HP technician deploy and integrate the device into the user's environment, at no extra cost.

In each of the 17 stores, a Sprout expert from both Harvey Norman and HP will be present to support potential customers, according to HP training specialist Paul Burman.

One example of software from the Marketplace is SizeUp, an app that can instantly measure the dimensions of any object placed under the Sprout 3D camera. The results are intricate and precise enough to be used for engineering and manufacturing.

For a younger audience, DreamWorks has its Animation Story Producer app in the Sprout Marketplace that allows users to create their own animated films.

But the main attraction for the computer will be its ability to scan in everyday objects to create a digital 3D model. The file can then be enhanced and passed on for 3D printing.

HP's Burman also showed off the 3D Capture Stage, a "turntable" accessory that increases the speed and accuracy of three-dimensional scanning by tilting the subject 15 degrees while revolving "to ensure all aspects of the object are captured".

The 3D Capture Stage accessory will also be available through Harvey Norman from October for $599.

"Sprout is a unique, game-changing product which will revolutionise the way people can create and design," said Harvey Norman managing director Katie Page. "We are excited to offer this technology to our customers and are confident it will be popular across various fields."