Earlier today we heard that HP would be releasing more HP TouchPad tablets in the next few weeks to satisfy the demand for the $99 tablet. This announcement has generated significant excitement among tech enthusiasts and consumers alike. However, it now looks like the last run of TouchPad tablets will be US only, which has left many potential buyers in other regions disappointed.
The guys over at spoke to HP’s PR agency and have found out that the last ever HP TouchPad tablets will be available in the US only. This means no more TouchPad tablets for us here in the UK and Europe, which is quite a letdown for those who were eagerly waiting to get their hands on this affordable tablet.
The Popularity of the HP TouchPad
The HP TouchPad gained immense popularity due to its highly competitive price point of $99, which is significantly lower than most tablets on the market. This price drop was part of HP’s strategy to clear out inventory after deciding to discontinue the webOS hardware operations. The tablet features a 9.7-inch display, a dual-core 1.2 GHz processor, and runs on the webOS operating system, which was praised for its user-friendly interface and multitasking capabilities.
Despite its initial lukewarm reception, the drastic price reduction led to a surge in demand, with many stores selling out within hours. The tablet’s affordability made it an attractive option for consumers looking for a budget-friendly device for browsing, media consumption, and light productivity tasks.
We are pleased by the response to webOS and look forward to customer feedback so we can further enhance the platform. A limited quantity of TouchPads will be available in the coming weeks in North America only. In EMEA we are discontinuing the webOS hardware operations and will not offer any additional products beyond what might be currently available in selective outlets.
Implications for International Buyers
For those in the UK and Europe, the news that the final batch of HP TouchPads will be US-only is disappointing. Many international buyers were hoping to take advantage of the low price to acquire a capable tablet. Unfortunately, this means that if you are still trying to get your hands on an HP TouchPad here in the UK, you will probably have to end up getting one from one of the various auction sites for more than the $99.
The secondary market for the HP TouchPad has seen a significant markup, with prices often exceeding the original $99 price tag. This is a common occurrence when a popular product is discontinued and becomes scarce. Buyers should exercise caution when purchasing from auction sites to avoid potential scams or inflated prices.
Additionally, the discontinuation of webOS hardware operations in the EMEA region means that there will be no further support or new products from HP in this line. This could impact the long-term usability and support for the TouchPad, as software updates and customer service may become limited.
Source
Thanks Emma for the tip!
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