Samsung has announced that it is developing a mobile internet browsing device.

When launched, the mobile browsing device will compete against products such as Nokia’s N800 and N810 internet tablets and Apple’s iPhone.

Samsung’s Jin Park explained that the company expects mobile internet devices, or MIDs, to become popular in future as handheld ultra-mobile PCs (UMPCs) such as the company’s own Q1 and Q1 Ultra replace many notebook computers.

Kyu Uhm, vice-president of the company’s computer systems division, said that it was currently considering operating systems for its planned MID device.

Samsung also confirmed it was testing the new WiMAX wireless networking system for fast mobile internet access, although it did not say whether or not this would be included in the new MID.

Park said in tests, prototype WiMAX technology used less battery than expected and was responsible for only 10 to 15 per cent of the battery usage of the test system.