ViewSonic To Show Tablet Computer With Phone Functions At CES

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; [e-mail]