Boeing is outfitting its new 787 Dreamliners with servers and touch-screens using Google’s Android operating system to provide music, video and apps to passengers in the new aircraft, according to a report today by Australian Business Traveller, citing information from a Boeing technical manager.

That effectively elbows out Apple, whose iPad has been making inroads in the cockpit; and Microsoft, Boeing’s fellow Seattle-area corporate giant, which this week showed off an upcoming version of Windows that’s designed for touch-oriented interfaces.

Panasonic and Thales are producing the Android-based hardware for the 787 entertainment system, according to the story. Panasonic has already built the first 787-certified touchscreen.

This is cold comfort for Microsoft, but Boeing is using the Redmond company’s Kinect sensor in a marketing initiative for the revamped Boeing 737.

Via Slashgear. Thanks to Isaac Alexander for the tip.