v3.6.0.2
Taxes on Earnings (Detail 4)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended 60 Months Ended
Oct. 31, 2016
USD ($)
item
Oct. 31, 2015
USD ($)
Oct. 31, 2014
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2009
USD ($)
Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits        
Balance at beginning of year $ 4,901 $ 2,067 $ 1,925  
Increases:        
For current year's tax positions 1,481 1,449 273  
For prior years' tax positions 863 3,591 533  
Net transfers from former Parent through equity 4,540 0 0  
Decreases:        
For prior years' tax positions (115) (554) (328)  
Statute of limitations expiration (47) (12) (121)  
Settlements with taxing authorities (73) (54) (215)  
Net transfers to former Parent through equity 0 (1,586) 0  
Balance at end of year 11,550 4,901 2,067  
Unrecognized tax benefits that would affect effective tax rate if realized 3,100 600 $ 1,400  
Increase in unrecognized tax benefit related to the timing of intercompany royalty income recognition 6,600      
Increase in unrecognized tax benefits   2,800    
Accrued income tax for interest and penalties $ 423 $ 269    
Likelihood of no resolution period 12 months      
Likelihood of conclusion period for certain federal, foreign and state tax issues 12 months      
Reasonably possible decrease in existing unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months $ 2,500      
Number of other countries in which HP is subject to income taxes | item 110      
Income tax examination, additional tax payable       $ 336
Income tax examination, proposed assessment amount $ 743      
Undistributed earnings from non-U.S. operations $ 26,200