Report: HP Is Working on Android Devices

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Unnamed sources are telling media outlets that HP is working on Android-based products. An HP Android tablet could be released this year, and a smartphone may also be in the works.

ZDNET’s Zack Whittaker reported, “HP is building an Android-powered tablet, a source close to the company has confirmed to ZDNet, speaking under the condition of anonymity. The source, who is familiar with the company’s plans, said that Android would be used ‘in at least one upcoming tablet.’ We understand that HP will remain invested in Windows 8, but will also branch out to rival platforms in a bid to help secure the company’s stake in the tablet market.”

ReadWrite’s Taylor Wimberly first broke the story, writing, “HP’s first Android device will be a high-end tablet that is powered by NVIDIA’s Tegra 4 chip, and it could be announced soon, according to two sources familiar with the matter (the sources spoke on the condition that they not be named because they are not authorized to discuss unreleased products). The tablet has been in the works since before Thanksgiving and sources say it could be one of the first tablets to ship with the Tegra 4.” He added, “Sources also say that HP is currently exploring the launch of an Android-powered smartphone, but recent comments from CEO Meg Whitman indicate HP will not offer a mobile phone this year.”

Kevin Parrish with Tom’s Hardware noted, “HP is rumored to be quietly showing an Android tablet behind closed doors during Mobile World Congress 2013 later this month. An official announcement isn’t expected to be made until after the show, sources said.”

InformationWeek’s Eric Zeman commented, “What’s perhaps most interesting about HP’s new tablet plans is that it is choosing Android over Windows RT/Windows Phone 8. There’s no doubt that Android tablets (and smartphones) have all the positive momentum in the industry. Though Apple’s iPad still wears the tablet crown, its share of the market has eroded steadily as more Android tablets arrive. It makes sense that HP would want to pick the operating system that gives its hardware the best chance of success. Android is clearly that operating system. The choice could create tension between HP and Microsoft, however.”