Announcements for the CES are rolling out in a never-ending list with several companies elucidating their agenda for the conference. Vizio enunciates its plans to enter the mobile terrain with an all new smartphone, entitled the Via Phone. This device is the latest entrant to Via Plus Ecosystem which comprises of several other high-end gizmos like Blu-ray players and HDTVs.
The handset is fitted with a high-resolution capacitive touchscreen which measures 4 inches. Powered by a 1 GHz processor, the device offers 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. It has been fitted with a MicroSD card slot for external memory. An HDMI output with HD video playback abilities has also been integrated into the smartphone.
“Both the Via Phone and Tablet feature the highest performance coupled with innovative features that tie them into the media consumption experience,” claimed Matthew McRae, Chief Technology Officer at Vizio. “And by integrating the Via Plus user experience also found on our next generation TVs and Blu-ray devices, Vizio is delivering the multi-screen, unified ecosystem others have talked about for years and never delivered.”
“As part of the Via Plus ecosystem, the Via Phone and Tablet are natural extensions of the HD entertainment experience that historically has centered around the TV. Whether consumers are looking to enjoy content on the big screen, on their tablet or on a mobile phone, Via Plus delivers on the promise of Entertainment Freedom for All by creating a rich and consistent user experience across all devices that’s accessible to everyone, from the power user to the casual browser,” further added Mr. McRae.
The Vizio Via Phone has been fitted with dual cameras a front-facing one for video chats and a 5 megapixel one at the rear with HD video capabilities. The handset is running on an Android platform which lets users indulge in the ocean of applications proffered by the Android Market. Fashioning a GPS, the device includes an incorporated IR blaster with universal remote control app. This allows handset owners to directly access the home theater system and other CE gadgets.
Along with the smartphone the company has even crafted the Via Tablet with an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen. Vizio will showcase both these devices at the CES from January 6 to 9, 2011.