The last time I talked about the HP TouchPad tablet that is coming soon was a week or so back. The tablet is tipped to hit Wal-Mart in June for $599, making it quite expensive. A new document turned up today from a leak that points to OfficeMax getting the TouchPad in July. The expected launch date is in June, and OfficeMax is typically behind the schedule on new products, so June could still be the official launch.
Multiple Versions of the HP TouchPad
The interesting thing about the document is that it shows two versions of the TouchPad. One of the versions is listed as a 3G tablet, which we already know about. The other version is listed as a 4G tablet. It could be that the 4G is a mistake on the OfficeMax document since no rumors have surfaced of a 4G version before now.
However, it could be that a real 4G version of the tablet is coming. It could also be that one of the faux 4G tablets with the faster 3G networks that AT&T is pushing is coming too. We will have to wait a while and see what the official launch announcement says.
Potential Impact on the Market
If HP does release a 4G version of the TouchPad, it could significantly impact the tablet market. The addition of 4G capabilities would make the TouchPad more competitive against other high-end tablets like the iPad, which has already established a strong presence in the market. Faster internet speeds and better connectivity could be a major selling point for consumers who rely on their tablets for streaming, video calls, and other data-intensive activities.
Moreover, the price point of $599 for the 32GB model places the TouchPad in a premium category. This could be a double-edged sword for HP. On one hand, it positions the TouchPad as a high-quality, feature-rich device. On the other hand, the high price could deter budget-conscious consumers who might opt for more affordable alternatives.
Another aspect to consider is the ecosystem that HP is building around the TouchPad. With the integration of webOS, HP’s proprietary operating system, the TouchPad offers a unique user experience. WebOS is known for its intuitive interface and multitasking capabilities, which could attract users who are looking for an alternative to iOS and Android.
Additionally, the potential release of a 4G version could open up new opportunities for partnerships with telecom providers. For instance, AT&T’s push for faster 3G networks could align well with the TouchPad’s capabilities, offering bundled data plans that make the device more attractive to consumers.
The leaked document from OfficeMax adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming launch of the HP TouchPad. Whether the 4G listing is a mistake or a hint at an upcoming release, it has certainly sparked interest and speculation. As we await the official announcement, it’s clear that HP is aiming to make a significant impact in the tablet market with the TouchPad. Whether it will succeed in this highly competitive space remains to be seen, but the potential for a 4G version adds an exciting dimension to the story.
via PreCentral
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