PC makers are wary of Windows RT, according to sources from the upstream supply chain. Taiwanese tech site DigiTimes reports HP has decided to halt development of Windows RT tablets due to Microsoft's attitude about the Surface tablet. Dell reportedly may also back away from the segment, and Toshiba also decided to stop development of its Windows RT tablets.
The sources noted that HP was originally rather aggressive about Windows 8 and RT tablet PCs and had been working hard with Qualcomm to resolve many compatibility issues, but after failing to coordinate with Microsoft, the company has decided to only work on Windows 8 models, forcing Qualcomm to turn to its other partner Dell.
However, since Dell is taking a conservative strategy for the PC market and is only placing limited Windows RT tablet PC orders that may be halted at any time, the sources believe Dell is unlikely to contribute strongly to Qualcomm's shipments.
Although Asustek Computer, Samsung and Lenovo will still launch Windows RT tablet PCs at the end of October, the vendors are still taking a conservative attitude about the product and will put their focuses on Android and Windows 8 models.
