In my work we have deployed *lots* of HP tablets and touchscreen computers. They are by no means new. And there is a reason why they haven't caught on yet - while they are faily convenient for some uses, they're pretty inconvenient and awkward to use for most general users.
Its surprising how many times a product like this comes out and people respond with "amazing! a touch screen!" as if it is a new innovation. I have a Motion Computing tablet on my desk at the moment that has a touch screen, barcode scanner, RFID reader, 80211n, Bluetooth, built-in camera AND a slot for a SIM card so it connect via 3G or EDGE - and while it is impressive technology and very convenient I don't think it is really ready for "prime time" consumer use.
An equivalent comment would be to say "Hey, Lexus has an automatic parking system on their cars now! How long before we see it in BMWs?". Sure, it works, and it has its problems and benefits, but that doesn't mean its ready for everyone.
That said, I have heard very good reviews of the new TouchSmart. HP tend to build their mainstream laptops well, though I hate their current line of tablets with a passion (anyone who has to unpack and setup a couple of their 2710p tablets each month will know how awkwardly they've been designed).
So in short, no, this won't cause pressure for Apple to one-up HP's design, and I'd be surprised if a new HP model makes much of a splash in the big scheme of things anyway.