HP posts webOS 2.1 SDK with Veer angle, hybrid apps
updated 05:40 pm EDT, Sat March 19, 2011
HP posts webOS 2.1 SDK ahead of Veer and Pre3
HP on Friday helped developers get started on next-generation webOS hardware with the webOS 2.1 SDK. The kit gives access to Exhibition for Touchstone-based apps, Just Type searches and direct Synergy hooks. Much of the emphasis is on the Veer, HP said; the 320x400 resolution is the same as that for the Pixi, making it possible to port apps from the tiny phone over to the faster, more advanced slider.
The SDK also introduces the first instance of hybrid app support. Titles can now both use the HTML and JavaScript of regular webOS apps but also use C or C++ for native code in games or other apps that need hardware-level access. Moving to 2.1 also helps transition over to 3.0, although any apps written for the TouchPad and later devices will have to be written solely in the new Enyo platform.
Prospective phone owners should see the Veer, and likely the Pre3 and TouchPad, no later than June.
