The Pre 2 (right) sits next to the Pre 3.

Hewlett-Packard's Pre 2 is finally making its way to Verizon Wireless.

The carrier announced today that the WebOS-based smartphone will be available in its stores and online starting Thursday.

The Pre 2 is the first device available to consumers that runs WebOS 2.0, Verizon noted. The device comes with a 3.1-inch display, a slide-out keyboard, and a 5-megapixel camera. It supports Wi-Fi and can share its 3G connection with up to five other devices, thanks to its Mobile Hotspot capability. The smartphone's WebOS 2.0 integration means people will also be able to place Skype-to-Skype calls in the U.S. from the handset.

HP's timing with the Pre 2 is a tad unfortunate, though.

Last week, the company unveiled its plans in the mobile market, revealing the TouchPad tablet and two smartphones, the Veer and the Pre 3.

As one might expect from the name, the latter is the successor to the Pre 2 and comes with a 3.6-inch multitouch display and a slide-out physical keyboard. It too will boast Mobile Hotspot functionality and offer video calling, thanks to its front-facing camera.

On nearly every front, the Pre 3 seems to be a more attractive option for customers than the Pre 2. And considering that the Pre 3 is launching this summer, the Pre 2 might just be too little, too late from HP.

Those interested in getting their hands on the Pre 2, however, can do so for $149.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate and with a two-year agreement.