HP unveils Android-based netbook

It’s a safe bet that Android will be one of the hot topics at MWC in Barcelona next week, and computer maker HP is the latest vendor to get behind the platform.

On Friday, the firm unveiled a netbook-sized device, the Compaq AirLife 100, which combines a 10.1” diagonal screen, a 92 per cent size keyboard,16GB solid state drive, and Android with a customised touch interface.

The AirLife also packs integrated 3G, wifi, a VGA webcam, GPS, NDrive navigation software and a claimed 12 hours of battery life. It runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chipset, which is becoming the platform of choice for Android-based MIDs.

HP also reinvigorated its iPaq line, with the launch of a QWERTY keyboard equipped Windows Mobile 6.5 3G device known as the Glisten.

With these products, HP is building on its existing relationship with Telefonica, with an eye on supplying mobile broadband services across Europe and Latin America.

Tthe Compaq AirLife 100 is expected to be available in Spring, exclusively from Telefónica, while the
Glisten will only be available through Telefónica in Latin America.