ViewSonic To Show Tablet Computer With Phone Functions At CES
December 30 2010 - 2:17PM
Dow Jones News
ViewSonic Corp. is expected to introduce a phone-tablet computer
hybrid that can support next-generation wireless connections at an
electronics industry trade show next week, according to two people
who work for the company.
The device will sport a four-inch screen, be capable of making
phone calls and run Google Inc.'s (GOOG) Android operating system,
according to the people, who asked not to be named because the
privately held company's plans aren't yet public. The device, along
with two other tablet computers, are expected to be announced at
the International Consumer Electronics Show. or CES, in Las
Vegas.
The hybrid machine will also connect to next-generation
telecommunications networks, known as 4G, one of the people said.
Sprint Nextel Corp. (S) and Verizon Wireless currently operate 4G
networks in the U.S. Verizon Wireless is a unit of Verizon
Communications Inc. (VZ) and Vodafone Group PLC (VOD, VOD.LN).
Walnut, Calif.-based ViewSonic's hybrid comes as more hardware
companies look to enter the touchscreen tablet-computer market,
trying to emulate the success of Apple Inc.'s (AAPL) iPad. Dell
Inc. (DELL), Acer Inc. (2353.TW), Motorola Inc. (MOT) and other
manufacturers are expected to announce new devices at CES.
ViewSonic, which already sells a seven-inch tablet computer
called ViewPad 7, isn't the first company to meld a mobile phone
and tablet computer in hopes of capturing consumers reluctant to
carry more than one device. Earlier this year, Dell launched a
five-inch hybrid called the Streak. Dell officials have made
optimistic comments about the device's sales performance, but
haven't released concrete data.
In addition to the ViewPad 7, ViewSonic has also announced a
10-inch tablet computer that is expected to hit stores within the
next three months. The device will be capable of running Microsoft
Corp.'s (MSFT) Windows operating system, as well as Android, which
could help to draw business customers.
-By Ian Sherr, Dow Jones Newswires; 415-439-6455;
ian.sherr@dowjones.com
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