Hello formalhaut,
Welcome to the HP Forums! I hope you enjoy your experience!
I understand that the computer touchpad freezes and fails to respond on your new computer. I will do what I can to assist you! To troubleshoot the issue, please try the steps in this HP document: Using and Troubleshooting the TouchPad or ClickPad (Windows 8)
These steps should resolve the issue. If not, I would contact HP support for hardware assistance, especially since the product is brand new. They will likely service the product for you, or replace it.
You can utilize this website to learn how to contact HP appropriately, based on your region: Contact HP Worldwide
Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns. Thanks for choosing the HP Forums. Have a great day!
Mario