Key members of the team behind HP's – the firm's HTML5-based JavaScript application framework for webOS – have been poached by Google, reports The Verge.

The site claims that around half a dozen 'core' staff behind Enyo are now likely to begin work on Android, though in what capacity is currently unknown.

Jumping ship

The news comes as HP has revealed planned layoffs totalling 27,000 between October 2011 and the end of 2014, though the firm's drive to make webOS an open platform for all continues.

Indeed, HP has confirmed that not all of the Enyo team have departed. Project lead Matt McNulty, however, is Google bound.

"We're pleased with the traction Enyo has gained to date and plan to continue its development along with the open source community," said HP of the news.

"The Open webOS project is on schedule and we remain committed to the roadmap announced in January."

This, of course, isn't the first time a prominent member of the webOS team has left for Google. Almost two years ago exactly, lead webOS designer Matias Duarte left Palm to take up a similar role on Android, with webOS'S UI in particular praised despite its lack of commercial success.

[source: The Verge]