Aiming to “revolutionize the display experience,” ViewSonic unveils Android-based Smart Display

Hoping to “revolutionize the display experience,” ViewSonic is launching a high-definition touch-screen monitor with an Android-based computer inside it.

It’s like an all-in-one desktop computer, but it’s not running Microsoft’s Windows operating system. Still, the display is aimed at consumers who want to do computing-like tasks such as surfing the web, engaging on social networks, and enjoying a bunch of Android apps.

The new VSD220 Smart Display has an dual-core ARM-based Texas Instruments OMAP 4 processor inside running Google’s Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) version operation system. The 22-inch screen can display images in full HD (1920 x 1080 resolution)

“The VSD220 Smart Display is engineered for today’s cloud connected world,” said Jeff Volpe, president of ViewSonic Americas. “ViewSonic is embracing the post-PC transition with what will be a full range of connected display solutions. For consumers, the VSD220 is perfect for surfing the web, engaging on social networks and enjoying a world of Android apps.”

He said that the display can be used in commercial settings such as signage, hospitality, point of information, and kiosks. And it does so without the cost of a full PC. The display will be available in North America in mid-to-late October for $399. The display can handle inputs from two fingers at a time, for a tablet-like web browsing experience. The company says the responsiveness of the screen is snappy and it can run videos and graphics-rich gaming apps without glitches. You can attach a keyboard and mouse through three universal serial bus (USB) ports or wireless connections. It has a Micro HDMI slot for connect a tablet or laptop. it also has a Micro SD card slot, an Ethernet jack, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless technology. It has a 1.2 megapixel webcam, speakers, and an integrated microphone.

“We are proud to see the leading capabilities of our OMAP 4 processor come to life on ViewSonic’s new VSD220 Smart Display,” said Ketan Malani, business development manager, OMAP platform business unit, Texas Instruments. “At home, at work and at play, consumers across all levels of the computing market demand full-HD capabilities, rich user interfaces, robust interactivity and other compelling features.”

ViewSonic, based in Walnut, Calif., is a big maker of PC and consumer electronics products. It was founded in 1987.