Android On HP TouchPad Imminent With CyanogenMod 7.1 Release

Developers from CyanogenMod have released the latest version of the their Android ROM (an improved mimic of Android) that supports 68 devices and will soon run on HP TouchPads.
Buyers flocked to Harvey Norman stores a few months back when stock of the TouchPad was being liquidated at sub-$100 prices after HP discontinued the tablet, and soon after rumours spread that hackers and developers would bring Android to the device.

CyanogenMod jumped into this pool early with a proof-of-concept but the software build for the TouchPad is now well on its way into consumers hands, currently in beta status .

“There are many devices still in beta status (Pyramid, Doubleshot, Shooter, HP Touchpad, Optimus 3D, several more) that we will be promoting to release or release-candidates in the next few weeks when the code is merged to our main branch,” said CyanogenMod founder Steve Kondik on the developer’s blog.

CyanogenMod 7.1 features enhanced Bluetooth support for tethering and accessories like mice, a screenshot function, added lock screen widgets, and other modifications specific to individual devices.

HP moved into damage control after confusion arose about the state of its consumer device business and the future of the WebOS operating system with the TouchPad being abandoned. The company’s head of marketing for the Personal Systems Group, Darren Needham-Walker, told SmartHouse that the WebOS platform that runs on TouchPads is being given continued investment for its development.

To see the full list of new devices that have been given CyanogenMod support, including the full Sony Ericsson Xperia line, check over the page.

    * HTC Desire S
    * HTC Incredible S
    * HTC Incredible 2
    * LG Optimus 2X and T-Mobile G2x
    * Motorola Backflip (Motus)
    * Motorola Cliq / Cliq XT
    * Motorola Defy
    * Motorola Droid 2
    * Motorola Droid X
    * Samsung Captivate
    * Samsung Fascinate
    * Samsung Mesmerize
    * Samsung Showcase
    * Samsung Vibrant
    * Samsung Galaxy S
    * Samsung Galaxy S2 (multiple carriers)
    * Sony Ericsson Xperia X8
    * Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini
    * Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini Pro
    * Sony Ericsson Xperia Neo
    * Sony Ericsson Xperia Play
    * Sony Ericsson Xperia Ray
    * Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc
    * ZTE V9