Netherlands-based IREX Technologies recently announced its plans to introduce a new e-reader device into an already-crowded marketplace. The IREX version is a $399 3G wireless stylus-touchscreen e-book reader with a 8.1” screen, placing the device squarely in competition with the Amazon Kindle and Sony’s just announced wireless e-reader, Daily Edition. Future IREX devices will include a true finger-tip touchscreen and a full-color e-ink touchscreen. Happily, the new IREX device will be compatible with most file formats (as contrasted with the Kindle, which only works with a proprietary format). In a detailed article, Publishers Weekly includes a statement by IREX’s CEO in support of open platform devices: “consumers should be able to buy books from any retailing source and use their books on different devices.” I agree.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Another E-Reader
Netherlands-based IREX Technologies recently announced its plans to introduce a new e-reader device into an already-crowded marketplace. The IREX version is a $399 3G wireless stylus-touchscreen e-book reader with a 8.1” screen, placing the device squarely in competition with the Amazon Kindle and Sony’s just announced wireless e-reader, Daily Edition. Future IREX devices will include a true finger-tip touchscreen and a full-color e-ink touchscreen. Happily, the new IREX device will be compatible with most file formats (as contrasted with the Kindle, which only works with a proprietary format). In a detailed article, Publishers Weekly includes a statement by IREX’s CEO in support of open platform devices: “consumers should be able to buy books from any retailing source and use their books on different devices.” I agree.
I am still up in the air as to whether or not I will ever get an e-reader, but it does help a bit to compare the functionality and specs between the various models to try to get a better idea of what I would look for if I did decide to go that route. I really like the way this one looks, and I like that it supports open platforms. Very cool post.
ReplyDeleteI like that this one has wireless internet (as opposed to using cellular networks) but I'm suspicious in regards to the size (that's one giant eReader) and the stylus-only touch screen. Sure, the future editions (color, finger flip) sound good, but wireless alone isn't enough. Not yet, at least...
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