So, you've heard a lot about this cool new gadget that everyone, from the guy next door to the evening news, seems to be talking about. Some people are skeptical, insisting electronic readers are just a fad that will die a quiet death. Others compare them to the iPod, insisting that they will revolutionize the publishing industry. But, if you've landed on this website, it's because you probably want to learn a little more about electronic readers.
I have the answers for you!
Electronic readers, sometimes called digital readers, are not a new concept. For years people have been talking about the idea of having a portable device with which to carry around a small collection of their favorite books and to be able to read them anywhere, anytime.
The first attempts at popularizing electronic readers was not very successful. They were large, clunky, and used a screen similar to a computer screen causing strain on the eyes. Add to that a relatively limited selection of novels, both old and new. The world just wasn't ready for a new reading device.
Fast forward to the twenty first century and, all of a sudden, technology seemed to catch up with the concept. Wireless connectivity became common-place, with wi-fi networks all over the continent. Then a little company based out of Cambridge, Massachusetts called E Ink developed electronic ink technology, basically a way to make low power, electronic paper. And so, the modern electronic reader was born.
Companies were quick to adopt this new technology. Sony was the first heavy weight to jump into this new realm, it however, its first electronic reader sputtered to take off. Others followed, each improving their design and functions, bringing us to the current batch of electronic readers.
In 2006, Sony re-launched with a newer version of its electronic reader, the Sony Reader PRS-505 and the competition scrambled to catch up. Following Sony's lead, several electronic readers have come onto the market: the iRex Iliad Reader, the Cybook Gen3 reader, the HanLin eBook reader, and the Amazon's Kindle.
We are now starting to see the second generation of electronic readers appear onto the scene. Sony once again released their version first, the Sony Reader PRS-700. It included some great new features such as a touch screen. UPDATE: Sony has also released the Sony PRS-300 Pocket Edition and the Sony PRS-600 Touch Edition.
Amazon followed with their Amazon Kindle 2. Another great product, Amazon pushed the envelope including cool features such as text reading. UPDATE: Amazon has release two other great electronic book readers recently...the Kindle DX, a large screen (9.7") version or its popular electronic reader, and the Kindle International which is now available in over 100 countries includeing most recently Canada.
There have also been several new additions to the electronic book reader family. Three worth mentioning are the BeBook Reader, the txtr Reader and an up and coming release of the Plastic Logic Reader. Each of these e-readers have unique characteristics and sleek designs.
This new generation of electronic reader has finally caught the attention of the masses and is destined to revolutionize the publishing business. It is now possible for someone to read what they want, where they want, by simply connecting to a mobile wireless connection and downloading the morning New York Times, their favorite monthly magazine, or the newest novel by their favorite author.
Whether you are sold on electronic readers already, or are still a little unsure, this website has a wealth of information for you. Have a look at our new FAQ section to get answers to some of those questions you have. Read a few of our articles, which cover topics such as the history of communication, and the technology behind e ink. Check out our product pages, which describe the features and functions of each electronic reader and give you the option to leave a review. We even have a section dedicated to e Books - you can find an old classic or browse through the new releases. Find a book format for any brand of electronic reader. Also, keep up to date in our Latest News RSS feed.
We hope you find what you're looking for.
Post new comment