Is HP Planning A Windows RT Tablet After All? (Updated)

Last month, Hewlett-Packard declared that it has no immediate plans to launch an ARM-based tablet PC once Microsoft officially unveils Windows 8 later this year, opting instead to focus on Intel-based devices for the business market.

But could they be wavering?

This morning, DigiTimes reports that HP is planning a 10.1-inch tablet running Windows RT - the version of the new OS targeted at ARM-based devices - and using a processor from Texas Instruments. The story also says that Dell is planning a similar tablet using a Qualcomm processor. Both HP and Dell devices are supposed to ship in the fourth quarter, according to the story.

The story also says that Lenovo, Toshiba and Asustek also are working on Win RT-based tablets. Acer is reportedly working on Intel-based tablets, but not ARM-based models. Sony and Samsung, the story says, "are turning conservative" on developing Win RT tablets.

I've sent a message to HP requesting comment; will update if/when they respond.

Update: Here's the response from HP.

"We don't comment on rumors," HP spokesperson Marelene Somsak says. "Our earlier statement stands."

And this is the original statement:

 "HP continues to look at using ARM processors in business and consumer products. However, our first Win 8 tablet will be on the x86 platform focused on the business market. The decision to go with x86 was influenced by input from our customers. The robust and established ecosystem of x86 applications provides the best customer experience at this time and in the immediate future."