Re: The right device at last?

From: "Robotech_Master"
> On Wed, May 14, 2008 at 12:49 PM, ajwalker42 
> <[email protected]> wrote:
>
>> I was reading on TeleRead that Astak is looking to possible 
>> break the
>> $200 price barrier with their new e-book reader.
>>
>
> It looks nice, especially since it runs Linux.
>
> But still, I think the "right" ebook reader will only come 
> along when
> something with similar specs is available for under $100, and 
> preferably
> under $50.
>
> Rule of thumb: If *I* can't afford it, it's not the "right" 
> device. :)
>
> -- 
> Chris Meadows aka | WWW: http://www.terrania.us |

Chris,

I think I agree with the thrust of this, though I am not sure 
even $50 (£25) is low enough.

But it sparked a different thought which questions the whole idea 
of the reader becoming a useful delivery system for mass use.

I read in the past couple of days, in a piece about people being 
asked what they would take first if they had to leave the house 
in an emergency, that it would be their mobile [cell phone]. 
While this was interesting, the thing that struck me was the 
information that most people have seven digital devices to carry 
around.

I am sure most feel they need another like they need a hole in 
the head.   Now I cannot imagine many people wanting to read 
anything lengthy on those tiny screens.

So i am wondering whether the dedicated reader is doomed to be a 
very minority interest.   Enough to be a business or two, but not 
to be a revolution.   This does not limit the growth of the 
ebook, however, since it can be read on any screen with the right 
electronic device.

Just thinking aloud...

Joseph Harris 


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