As expected, Hewlett Packard (NYSE: HPQ) earlier this week unveiled its TouchPad tablet, which comes with a 9.7-inch capacitance screen, a front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera, dual-core 1.2GHz CPU and the webOS operating system it gained when it acquired Palm. Not to be outdone by the Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) iPad, the TouchPad also packs such features as a light sensor, accelerometer, magnetometer and yes, a gyroscope too. When it's available in the summer, it will be come in 16GB or 32GB storage configuration, connect via Wi-Fi and sport a microUSB connector.

One of the features that has drawn praise is its dedicated notification bar where users can sort through notifications without having to leave the current app. In addition, the TouchPad features a resizable on-screen keyboard that is available in four sizes--in contrast to the iPad's non-configurable one.

Given the explosive growth of a market few cared about prior to the iPad, its no surprise observers are exercising caution in their evaluation of the TouchPad. The general sentiment appears to be positive though, and those who gave the tablet a spin seem inclined to agree that the webOS implementation was not rushed. However, does the TouchPad have what it takes to succeed?

For more on this story:

- check out this article at CNET Reviews
- check out this article at TechNews
- check out the HP TouchPad website

Related Articles:
RIM plans for high PlayBook demand 
Tablets dominated CES 
Enterprises to get RIM Playbook first