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HP Releasing Windows 8 Atom-Based Tablet Too

HP has chosen Intel's platform to create a Windows 8 tablet because it's not clear when Windows on ARM will be released.

ZoomFollowing news that HP hopes to have Windows-8 based PCs out the door by the end of the year, HP CEO Meg Whitman said during a Wall Street Journal conference in Menlo Park, California that the company also plans to release a Windows 8 tablet in the same year-end timeframe.

According to Whitman, HP chose Intel's Atom-based solution over chips based on ARM because it's "not clear" when Windows on ARM will actually be released. Microsoft has indicated that it's pushing to launch the non-x86/64 version in the same timeframe, but apparently there's enough doubt to convince HP into using an Atom SoC instead.

Wednesday during HP's earnings conference call, Whitman made no mention of producing a Windows on ARM tablet by the end of the year, and now we know why. She also indicated that the company would be prepared for a possible Windows 8 (x86/64) launch delay, but hoped to see the new OS appear on store shelves before the 2012 holiday season begins.

"The better Windows 8 is, the better off we are," she said during the call. "So, we're rooting for a fantastic Windows 8 product that's delivered on time that we can get to market before the holiday season," she said during the call.

If Windows 8 does get delayed (and we're not saying it will), HP could very well release compatible desktops and laptops by the end of the year anyway along with a voucher to upgrade to the new OS when it finally goes retail. Tablets would likely be stalled until the new OS is released however, thwarting HP's pre-2012 Holiday Season launch, depending on how long the possible delay ensues.

In addition to talking about Windows 8 tablets, Whitman on Friday said the company is currently investing in developing talented executives. It's also focusing on organic growth and getting back to the company's original principles -- what it calls "The HP Way." She also said HP would hire the next CEO from within instead of luring outside parties.