HP has launched two new 'affordable' media players designed to be used with its digital signage displays to help retail and hospitality businesses 'of any size' create 'stunning, informative, interactive digital experiences'. The MP6 and MP4 players will be available later this month in North America and Latin America, excluding Brazil.

HP's MP6 media player can meet 'the most demanding dynamic content requirements', the company claims, with an Intel dual core processor powering high definition graphics. HP cites hotel and shopping mall directories as potential applications, or it can be paired with a touch-enabled display to deliver interactive content.

The MP4 is HP's thinnest player, which it says is ideal for 'common' signage deployments in retail and hospitality environments, displaying static images or full-screen videos. Its 64-bit AMD processor and Radeon HD 6320 graphics help to 'improve the store experience' with 'compelling promotional merchandising environments', says HP.

HP notes that its new media players give retailers an opportunity to develop an omnichannel environment for customers by offering interactive in-store displays that could, for example, allow them to access a wishlist created online.