Mio Technology will launch a new version of its MiBuddy 4.7-inch touchscreen Internet and navigation device next year running Google's Android mobile software, a company representative said Tuesday.

The next generation MiBuddy will be a mobile Internet navigation device (MIND), complete with Internet browsing and a keypad that slides out from the underside for real touch typing.

The MiBuddy aims to fill a few roles. It fits onto a car dashboard mount so it can perform all the functions of a car GPS (global positioning system) navigation device, and it's also made to be carried around as a personal navigation device as well as used for comfortable Internet browsing on a screen bigger than most smartphones, the representative said.

Current MiBuddys use Microsoft's Windows CE operating system exclusively. Windows CE will continue to be offered for the next generation MiBuddys coming out next year, in addition to Android.

More: http://computerworld.com/s/article/9139938/