Finally, the 9.7-inch TouchPad was launched today by Hewlett-Packard within the WebOS event in San Francisco. The new device will run on WebOS, acquired by HP along with Palm in a $1.2 billion deal in April 2010 and now the investment must pay off.

HP used the occasion to also launch two new smartphones, both on WebOS as expected, namely the HP Veer and Pre 3, both having borrowed certain characteristics from predecessor Pre such as size, slide-down keyboard and other technical peculiarities. The Veer will be available in spring, whereas the Pre 3, targeting corporate markets, will be available in summer.

Hewlett-Packard made a reference to WebOS 2.1, expected to come out with some 50 new features, such as voice dialing, video conferencing for business uses, and quick multitasking. The new notebook line from Hewlett-Packard borrows characteristics from the HP Pavilion line, adding a stylish design, in accordance with the company’s MUSE design philosophy. MUSE includes a mix of materials such as metals, alloys and plastics; easy-to-use features for improved usability; a blend of artisan elements for sensory appeal; and intuitive features for simple experiences. TouchPad features its own versions of AirPrint and AirPlay and allows users to share information between WebOS devices.

It now remains to be seen whether or not the TouchPad will successfully compete with the iPad, considering the market is currently dominated by iOS, with significant growth for Android’s camp. Even though the new device envisages new features in the tablet domain, like the front-face camera and superior system requirements, we can’t forget that later this year Apple will be launching the second generation iPad.  Apple still has a competitive advantage, though the talbet market is clearly starting to sizzle.