HP webOS 3.0 SDK Now Available to App Developers

HP set a summer deadline for the TouchPad tablet earlier this year and it appears the company is sticking to that schedule. The software developers kit for webOS 3.0, the version of the mobile operating system that will run on the 9.7-inch slate, is now available for programmers and designers who want to build apps that will run on the dual-core powered, 1024×768-resolution tablet.

Interestingly, the SDK for webOS 3.0 is available only to developers in HP’s Early Access program. However, the manufacturer is making it easy for app makers to join that parade. All they’ll need to do is send an email to pdc@palm.com. The easy sign-up implies that HP is eager to get new blood into its applications market, a wise move considering that Apple worked in secret with select developers to guarantee a well-rounded selection of iOS apps for the first iPad.

The announcement also mentions that developers who get an early start building apps for the HP webOS platform will be in better position to take advantage of “potentially millions” of future webOS phones, tablets, computers, printers, and other products. HP’s cross-product hopes for webOS have been no secret, so we can assume the company is working on a wide variety of webOS products even as it prepares to launch the TouchPad.

Check out our hands on with the TouchPad to get a sense of what some of those HP webOS 3.0 apps may look like.  Any developers who want to sign up for HP’s developer program can do so here, but will still need to sign up for the Early Access Program via the email above.