Mio MiBuddy MID powered by Android to hit streets in 2010

Mio moves onto use Android OS instead of Windows CE

Mio MiBuddy MID

Mio MiBuddy is hitting the markets in first half of 2010 with some good features added with capabilities of a mobile phone such as Internet browsing, Bluetooth, GPS navigation, WiFi, Media Player, Voice interface, Camera. Mobile internet access with WiMax might also be added in the future versions. The only reason why it doesn’t qualify to be a mobile phone is due to the lack of cellular connectivity. The edge for Mio is its 4.7 inches wide screen giving it a broader look as compared to a smart phone.

Moving away from the image of a conventional Mio device known for its smart GPS interface, the company is coming up with an Android based model also having a QWERTY keyboard interface that slides from the underside of the display. It fits onto a car dashboard mount so it can perform all the functions of a car GPS (global positioning system) navigation device. In short it’s a mobile VoiP device.

Current MiBuddy uses Microsoft's Windows CE operating system exclusively. Both Windows CE and Android will coexist for the next generation MiBuddy’s coming out next year. I personally think this is a step forward for moving towards making a smart phone. This makes sense as having a very efficient navigation tool in its kitty and known for its robust devices, Mio does stand a chance to gather momentum in this segment.

Android based devices are hitting the market at a faster rate. No wonder companies such as Samsung, HTC, Motorola, LG and Acer are going to come up with Android based phones or notebooks next year.  Using Android could also mean synchronizing with Google thinking: accessing Google maps, Google docs on the run.

The prices and exact dates of launch were not disclosed by the company but 2010 is definitely going to be an Android Year making MiBuddy more open sourced and fun to use.