HP’s TouchPad has received a serious amount of attention recently since the company decided to cancel the device, and a few of the last TouchPad tablets shipped with Android installed.
We have already seen a video of Android running on the TouchPad, and now the guys over at Team TouchDroid have managed to get Android 2.3.5 running on the TouchPad and it is available to dual boot with HP’s webOS.
The Journey of HP TouchPad
The HP TouchPad was initially launched with high expectations as a competitor to Apple’s iPad. However, it struggled to gain traction in the highly competitive tablet market. The device was powered by HP’s webOS, which was praised for its multitasking capabilities and user-friendly interface. Despite these strengths, the TouchPad faced challenges such as a lack of apps and developer support, which ultimately led to its discontinuation.
After HP announced the cancellation of the TouchPad, the remaining stock was sold at significantly reduced prices, sparking a surge in consumer interest. This unexpected demand led to a renewed interest in the device, particularly among tech enthusiasts and developers who saw potential in repurposing the hardware.
Android on HP TouchPad: A New Lease on Life
The decision by Team TouchDroid to port Android onto the HP TouchPad has breathed new life into the device. Android 2.3.5, also known as Gingerbread, was a popular version of the operating system at the time, known for its improved user interface, enhanced performance, and support for new technologies such as NFC (Near Field Communication).
As you can see in the video, the project is still a work in progress. The touchscreen functionality is not yet operational, which is a significant hurdle that the developers are working to overcome. Despite this, the ability to dual boot between Android and webOS offers users the best of both worlds, combining the strengths of both operating systems.
The efforts of Team TouchDroid highlight the vibrant community of developers and enthusiasts who continue to support and innovate with the HP TouchPad. Their work not only extends the lifespan of the device but also provides valuable insights into the possibilities of cross-platform compatibility.
For those interested in following the progress of this project or contributing to its development, more information can be found at Team TouchDroid’s website. The community is actively engaged in troubleshooting issues, sharing updates, and collaborating on solutions to improve the Android experience on the TouchPad.
The HP TouchPad’s journey from a discontinued product to a platform for innovation is a testament to the creativity and dedication of the tech community. The ability to run Android on the TouchPad opens up new possibilities for users and developers alike, ensuring that this once-overlooked device continues to make an impact in the world of technology.
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