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Earlier today at a press event in San Francisco, HP announced the TouchPad tablet. As expected after the acquisition of Palm, this highly anticipated device runs entirely on a new version webOS. Although optimized for a larger display, it retains many elements of the smart phone version such as cards for multitasking and stacks for organizing open applications.
I had a chance to get a HP representative to demo the TouchPad on camera, so feel free to watch the embedded video below in full HD 1080p goodness. The walk through shows off the web browser, touch to share smart phone technology, the Touchstone wireless chargers, the adaptable virtual keyboard, and a few more neat features.
HP TouchPad Specifications:
- Powered by HP webOS
- Runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon dual-core 1.2 GHz
- 9.7 inch XGA (1024×768) capacitive multi-touch display
- GPS module inside 3G models only
- Front-facing 1.3 megapixel camera for video calls
- Light sensor, accelerometer, compass, and gyroscope
- WiFi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP
- 16 GB or 32 GB internal storage, no expansion
- 6300 mAh battery, non-removable
- MicroUSB for charging and data
- 3.5 mm headphone/microphone/headset jack
- Internal stereo speakers with Beats Audio
- HP Touchstone wireless charging compatible
- 9.45 inches x 7.48 inches x .54 inches
- Weighs 1.6 pounds (740 grams)
With some hardware that puts it ahead of competitors such as the Apple iPad, BlackBerry PlayBook, and Motorola Xoom in certain categories, the TouchPad will appeal to many. The webOS interface also stands out from others. Extra perks such as compatibility with networked HP printers or audio enhancements by Dr. Dre Beats Audio is a plus. While this tablet won’t ship until this Summer, stick around for an in-depth early look and previews of the new HP Veer and HP Pre 3.
Links: HP TouchPad
