The world of business laptops has long been dominated by machines focused on security, reliability, and productivity — often at the expense of innovation or excitement. But with the EliteBook Ultra G1i, HP seems determined to redefine what a modern work device should be. This isn’t just another slim corporate notebook with a familiar logo on the lid. It’s HP’s bold step into a future where artificial intelligence isn’t a bonus feature — it’s the main engine of productivity.

Powered by Intel’s new Core Ultra architecture and paired with smart AI-enabled tools, the EliteBook Ultra G1i positions itself as a Next Gen AI PC. It aims to reshape how professionals collaborate, create, and protect their work.

Design: Familiar Yet Future-Ready

HP hasn’t strayed far from its sleek and minimalist EliteBook design language. The chassis feels premium, light, and sturdy, capable of surviving the commuter lifestyle and constant travel expected of high-end business users. Nothing flashy here — but that’s very much intentional. EliteBooks don’t need neon accents or gamer-style vents to prove they’re powerful. The refinement speaks for itself.

The 14-inch OLED display option, which delivers a stunning 2.8K (2880 × 1800) resolution with full 100% DCI-P3 colour accuracy, is one of the standout elements. It’s vibrant, sharp, and genuinely elevates everything from presentations to video calls. At 400 nits, visibility remains solid in most lighting environments, though strongly lit outdoor conditions may push its limits.

Touch support enhances usability for travelling executives who want to annotate documents or glide through tasks more intuitively. In the hybrid work era, this kind of flexibility is almost essential.

Performance Powered by Intel’s AI Push

Inside the EliteBook Ultra G1i lies Intel’s Core Ultra 7 (258V) option — part of the chipmaker’s latest focus on AI acceleration and efficient performance. The processor clocks up to 4.8 GHz Turbo with 8 cores and 8 threads, striking a balance between multitasking capability and battery longevity.

This chip includes a neural processing unit (NPU) dedicated to running AI workloads locally. That means powering on-device features — like background noise reduction, real-time translation, or collaboration enhancements — without sending data to the cloud. Good for speed, great for privacy.

Paired with up to 32 GB of LPDDR5x memory at a speedy 8533 MT/s, the machine easily handles demanding workflows, virtual meetings, creative edits, and multitasking across dozens of browser tabs. A 1 TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD configuration ensures quick boot times and instant application responsiveness.

It’s clear HP designed this machine for professionals who won’t settle for slowdowns — whether they’re managing cybersecurity analytics or editing high-res visuals for client projects.

AI Features That Actually Matter

Every tech brand today is scrambling to inject AI into products, but HP appears to have taken a more meaningful route. The EliteBook Ultra G1i integrates AI intelligence into features that enhance real-life productivity:

• AI-enabled webcam improves clarity and lighting to ensure users look professional in video calls.

• Adaptive audio reduces background distractions — ideal for remote workers and frequent flyers.

• Local AI support also extends to performance optimisation, learning how users work and adjusting power distribution accordingly to keep everything smooth and efficient.

This is the kind of AI integration that doesn’t feel gimmicky. It helps you do your job better without demanding attention.

Security: The Enterprise Backbone

Security continues to be the core foundation of HP’s business strategy, and the Ultra G1i inherits the company’s best technologies:

• HP Wolf Security — a hardware-isolated approach that protects against firmware and OS-level attacks

• HP Sure Click — opened browser tabs and files are isolated to protect users from malicious content

Together, they deliver peace of mind for IT managers and travelling professionals who frequently connect to public networks or open external files. In an age of increasing cyber threats, this kind of protection isn’t optional — it’s a necessity.

Connectivity for the Modern Office

With Intel Wi-Fi 7 support in certain configurations, the EliteBook Ultra G1i proves future-ready. While Wi-Fi 7 networks are still emerging, opting for a machine that will take full advantage of them makes long-term sense, especially as businesses continue upgrading network infrastructure. Bluetooth 5.4 also ensures stable and low-latency peripheral pairing — ideal for wireless headsets and accessories that drive virtual collaboration.

Port selection is streamlined yet functional, aimed at those who travel with adapters or docking setups. While minimalism reigns, the design still meets the needs of professionals who plug into multiple monitors or docking stations at the office.

Battery Life: A Workday That Won’t Quit

Equipped with a 64 Wh Long Life battery, the EliteBook Ultra G1i is built for mobility. Energy efficiency from Intel’s new CPU architecture means users should comfortably push through an entire day of work — and perhaps a long flight too — without the anxiety of hunting for a power outlet.

Fast charging capability adds confidence and convenience. Business users simply can’t afford to let a dying battery slow them down.

Collaboration-First Philosophy

Hybrid work trends continue shaping device design, and HP has clearly leaned in. Beyond its visual and audio upgrades, the EliteBook Ultra G1i brings subtle enhancements that make everyday teamwork easier — even from afar. AI noise cancellation, face-framing camera improvements, and quick collaboration access keys support the modern rhythm of online meetings and cross-team communication.

This machine wants to be more than just a work tool. It wants to be a reliable co-worker.

Who Is This Laptop Really For?

The EliteBook Ultra G1i isn’t trying to capture the casual market or compete with ultra-budget devices. It’s intentionally positioned for:

• Enterprise professionals requiring premium security

• Frequent travellers needing high battery efficiency

• Creatives or analysts who benefit from OLED visuals

• Power users embracing AI productivity tools

• Organisations standardising around Windows 11 Pro environments

This is a serious machine for serious work — and it wears that proudly.

Final Verdict: The EliteBook Evolves

HP’s EliteBook lineup has long been praised for its durability and business-focused build, but rarely accused of being ahead of the curve. The Ultra G1i changes that narrative. It combines everything we expect from a premium enterprise laptop — strength, smarts, and security — while injecting advanced AI computing into the heart of its performance.

No unnecessary gimmicks. Just powerful next-generation technology wrapped in a refined design that earns its place in the executive carry-on.

If you’re a professional looking for a laptop that not only keeps up with your work but elevates it, the HP EliteBook Ultra G1i stands out as one of the first truly compelling AI business machines. It’s not just future-proof — it’s already living a few steps ahead of today’s workplace demands.