eReaders

Top: Time e-reader, photo credit: Sports Illustrated. Middle: Skiff e-reader. Bottom: iPad, image courtesy of Apple

With the rise of the public’s expectation of free internet content, the world of newspapers, magazines and books has struggled to make pace – and break even – with technology. However, innovation is happening and ushering in some of the most dynamic tech products since the unveiling of the iPod: new and improved e-readers, interactive devices appealing to a new generation of readers. Three in particular have caught our eye.

Time Inc.’s magazine tablet, unlike Amazon’s Kindle, is demonstrated as bright and filled with cool virtual technology. Unlike the static content of paper mags, the gadget allows publishers to pack in behind-the-scenes images and video, while also giving the reader the freedom to rearrange and dig deeper into content to their liking. Advertisements, no longer locked in a freeze-frame, can also come to life: a Weber ad, for example, features not only the page print, but video clips to accompany it. The Wonderfactory, has helped create a unbelievable video demo of the Time offering, which can be seen here.

Another soon to be released e-reader, the Skiff, is about the size of a magazine and will properly host magazines and newspapers, though only in black and white at this point. It is however remarkably thin, completely shatter resistant, and flexible. Its resolution surpasses other e-readers, and pages turn instantly at the swipe of a finger. Content can be loaded quickly via the Sprint 3G network, WiFi or mini-port, and there are 4 gigs of memory built into the device. Its battery power will last for about a week’s worth of reading. The Skiff also offers a cool search feature, allowing readers to scan for specific terms throughout the gadget’s contents or in one specific article.

Finally, the Apple iPad was announced just yesterday and will begin shipping in March. With a 9.7 (diagonal) inch screen, specially-made Apple processor and the remarkable touch screen interface found on the iPhone, this e-reader will be hard to beat. Apple announced a third store as well (iTunes and the App store being 1 & 2) – the iBookstore. For more photos and specs, go here. Starting price $499.

Categories: Knowledge