ViewSonic Spreads Its Wings With Web Appliances

After 13 years on top of the visual display marketplace, ViewSonic launched a line of Internet appliances this week under the watchful eye of executive vice president Peter Weedfald. High amongst the skyline of Manhattan in a Waldorf suite, Weedfald exuded confidence in ViewSonic's new products while taking extra care to communicate that the company is not straying from its core competencies.

The new products include stand-alone boxes that can plug into any ViewSonic [or competing] monitor, wireless Web pads, and a Web-enabled phone/display. All of the Internet appliances are bundled with ISP service.

ViewSonic announced a strategic relationship with AT&T WorldNet service at the time of the product launch; however, that contract is non-exclusive and the ISP can be customized by corporate customers, system integrators or solution providers. Operating systems are not an obstacle to the Internet appliances as ViewSonic's technology supports five of the most widely-accepted wireless operating systems in current use: Windows CE, Linux, QNX, Be and VxWorks.

All orders are configurable with an expected 60-90 day fulfillment range. ViewSonic plans to stay with its proven distribution channels, particularly courting system integrators and solution providers for market penetration.

"We have a great and successful relationship with VARs and integrators that we plan to nurture on a continuing basis," Weedfald says. Weedfald sees corporations as ViewSonic's biggest target. Companies trying to tighten relationships with their customers, account representatives and business partners can use those devices to penetrate the home.

All Web appliances will have a branded interface and a home page customized to the customer. The appliances will be available in the fourth quarter of 2000. More information can be found at www.viewsonic.com.