Hewlett-Packard (HP) is set to launch computer tablets based on WebOS operating system early next year and the company may also be getting ready to launch a tablet based on Microsoft's Windows 7 operating system, according to a company official.

HP took over mobile device manufacturer Palm for $1.2 billion and received the rights to WebOS earlier this year. The WebOS is based on WebOS is integrated into the smartphones of Palm line.

Experts raised doubts over HP partnership with Microsoft during the acquisition. However, HP is offering WebOS-based mobile products to consumers and is targeting enterprises with Windows based products.

HP aims at becoming a serious competitor to Apple with its dual platform strategy. Apple’s iPAd has been very successful in the market and the company might launches newer version in 2011. Meanwhile another PC maker, Dell has also launched its tablet, Streak based on Google’s Android platform.

According to some reports Hp will come out with the "Roadrunner" WebOS Smarphone featuring a screen display that matches that of Apple iPhone’s Retina display. Ho officials say that new HP Web OS will come with technically advanced features and will match the latest platforms available.

Hp reported a profit of $1.8 billion for its third quarter and its revenue grew to $30.7 billion.