Microsoft's decision to make its own Surface tablets could have major implications for its traditional hardware partners, but their opinions on the subject remain divided. While Acer's CEO told Microsoft to "think twice" about its plans, Lenovo is more sanguine on Windows 8's prospects — and now HP seems to agree. Executive John Solomon told CRN that the company doesn't consider Surface a competitive threat, and emphasized that its own Windows 8 tablet would have enough to stand apart.

"I believe Microsoft was basically making a leadership statement and showing what's possible in the tablet space. Our relationship has not changed at all due to Microsoft's announcement. In fact, I applaud it -- I think it's great that they are getting out in front and [showing] what's possible."

On the other hand, it doesn't look like we'll be seeing a similar product from HP — we know that the company is focusing on business users first and foremost, and Solomon believes "if you're a professional content creator, there's no way you're going to use a keyboard like that for everyday use." It's still unclear exactly what HP's Windows 8 tablet will bring to the table, however. Solomon says that the company will apply some "unique intellectual property" and promises further details "pretty soon;" hopefully that means ahead of Windows 8's October 26th launch date.