HP today announced the HP TouchSmart software development programs that allow software developers to create consumer and commercial applications for HP TouchSmart PCs and touch-enabled digital signage displays.

The programs are designed to significantly increase the utility of TouchSmart products for consumers and businesses.

“HP TouchSmart development programs allow developers to uncover new market opportunities while users can discover a whole new world of possibilities on their touch products,” said James Taylor, director, Experience Marketing, Personal Systems Group, HP. “HP’s unique multitouch user interface, combined with native applications, provide the most advanced software platform for touch-enabled PCs and digital signage.”

HP connects with developers at TouchSmart DevZone

Developers looking to create applications for consumer TouchSmart PCs can visit the TouchSmart DevZone at www.touchsmartdevzone.com to download the HP TouchSmart software development kit free of charge. The kit includes a complete set of code samples, documentation and application programming interfaces that make creating applications for HP TouchSmart products easy and fast.

DevZone also has the latest TouchSmart news and allows developers to connect with each other to discuss their solutions, share tips and exchange information.

HP has been working closely with companies including Hulu, Netflix, Pandora, Rhapsody and Twitter to create built-for-touch applications for its third generation of consumer TouchSmart products, which are now available for purchase.

“Working with HP to develop a touch-enabled Netflix application for the HP TouchSmart PC has been a remarkably easy process,” said Bill Holmes, vice president, business development, Netflix. “The Netflix application enables people to view thousands of full-screen TV episodes and movies with just the swipe of a finger, making browsing and instant watching fun and easy for Netflix members.”

New HP Interactive Solutions ISV Partner Program for business products

The HP Interactive Solutions ISV (Independent Software Vendor) Partner Program allows ISVs to register with HP to access technical resources and support for building tailor-made business solutions for business TouchSmart PCs and touch-enabled and non-touch digital signage displays. In partnering with ISVs, HP provides its business customers more choices and provides a more complete solution for their needs.

Developers in the program will be able to take advantage of an equipment discount offered as well as the technical, marketing and sales resources available at www.hp.com/go/touchsmartpartners. Technical resources include white papers, product information and a technical forum managed by the ISV team and HP engineers. Marketing and sales resources include HP branded collateral, sales assistance tool and more.

HP already has strong relationships with industry ISVs and has worked closely with them to enhance the end-user experience with TouchSmart products in healthcare, hospitality and retail outlets.

“As a trusted partner and member of HP’s Interactive Solutions ISV Partner Program, Digital Aisle has been able to develop an array of intelligent software solutions that help engage and move retail shoppers closer to purchasing not one item on the shelf, but several,” said Peter Guenther, chief executive officer, Digital Aisle. “We are currently offering a portfolio of applications across many channels, such as mass retail, grocery, drug and specialty, which allows users to have an interactive dialogue about the specific products and brands being merchandised. Our solutions influence their purchasing decisions in a way that they have never experienced before.”

More information about becoming an HP Interactive Solutions ISV partner is available at www.hp.com/go/touchsmartpartners.

Also visit HP in booth 601 at Microsoft’s Professional Developer Conference, Nov. 17- 19 in Los Angeles for more information on the TouchSmart software development programs.

About HP

HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world’s largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure to solve customer problems. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com/.

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