Hewlett-Packard (HP) has confirmed plans to launch a webOS-based device in early 2011.

In a conference call to discuss HP third quarter earnings, company executive vice president of the personal systems group said: "You'll see us with a Microsoft product out in the near future and a webOS-based product in early 2011."

Tech news site THINQ reports that the webOS powered device may be launched at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, set to be held early next year.

In July, HP were reported to have trademarked the name "PalmPad", leading to speculation of the name of the future webOS-powered HP tablet.

The trademark covers: "Computers, computer hardware, computer software, computer peripherals, portable computers, handheld and mobile computers, PDAs, electronic notepads, mobile digital electronic devices."

HP is currently searching for a new CEO following the forced resignation of Mark Hurd.

Hurd resigned after an internal investigation found that he had submitted falsified expense claims to hide his controversial relationship with former 'actress' and marketing consultant Jodie Fisher.