HP's TouchPad lands July 1

Hewlett-Packard said its Wi-Fi version of its TouchPad will be available in the U.S. July 1 and that latest challenger to Apple’s iPad should be interesting to watch.

First, the details. HP’s TouchPad will be available in the U.S. in a 16GB version for $499 and a 32GB version for $599. Those prices match Apple’s iPad and the going rate for tablets. HP will start preorders in North America and Europe June 19.

Globally, the U.K., Canada, Ireland, France and Germany will get the device in mid-July. Italy, Spain, Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand and Singapore will get the TouchPad later this year.