Sony has introduced their version of the electronic reader, Reader Daily Edition.
Instead of hauling your books around in your backpack or breifcase simply download what you want to read and slide it in your back pocket or purse until your coffee break. You can even download on the go with Sony’s free 3G wireless access. All for a meager $399.99 plus the cost of downloads.
Features
Measuring 0.6″ thick and weighing 12.75 ounces, the Reader Daily Edition also features a 7″ paper-like display and touch screen navigation. You can literally carry hundreds of books at a time and read content in either portrait or landscape viewing modes. Plus, the Reader supports multiple formats including ePub and PDF while giving you access to over one million free public domain titles from Google Books.
Touch Screen Navigation
Designed to mimic the paperback experience, you can read in either portrait or landscape orientation. Use the intuitive touch screen navigation to turn pages, bookmark your spot, adjust the font, and search for titles with the swipe of a finger. According to Sony, with their E Ink® Vizplex™ screen technology, you’ll experience a high contrast, paper-like display.
Supports Multiple Formats
Providing more than just a superior reading experience, the Reader Daily Edition, supports Adobe® PDF, Microsoft® Word, BBeB® and other text file formats, as well as EPUB/ACS and connection with Adobe Digital Editions. In addition to being PC and Mac® compatible, you can play back unsecured MP3 and AAC audio files.
Product Specs
Measurements / Weights
* Dimensions (Approx.) : 5 x 8-1/8 x 19/32 inches (WxHxD) without cover 5 x 8-1/8 x 23/32 inches (WxHxD) with cover
* Weight (Approx.) : 12.75 oz
Supported Media Formats
* DRM Text : ePub (Adobe DRM protected), PDF (Adobe DRM protected), BBeB Book (PRS DRM protected)
* Image : JPEG, PNG, GIF, BMP
* Unsecured Audio : Unsecured Adudio: MP3 (Non encrypted), AAC (Non encrypted)
* Unsecured Text : ePub, BBeB Book, PDF, TXT, RTF, Micrsoft® Word, (Conversion to the Reader requires Word installed on your PC)
Memory
Memory Size : User available capacity: Up to 1.6 GB Dual Memory Card Expansion Slots for Memory Stick Duo™ and SD Card up to 32 GB.
System Requirements
General : OS: – Microsoft® Windows 7 Home Basic/ Home Premium/ Professional/ Ultimate. Microsoft® Windows Vista® (32-bit or 64-bit) Home Basic/ Home Premium/ Business/ Ultimate with Service Pack 1 or later. Microsoft Windows XP (32-bit only) Home Edition/ Professional/ Media Center Edition 2004 & 2005 with Service Pack 2 or later. – Mac OS X version 10.6, 10.5.6 or later, 10.4.11 or later. CPU: – 800 MHz Celeron class processor or better for Windows. – Intel, Power PC G3, G4, or G5 processor for Mac RAM: -128 MB or more (minimum 512 MB for Windows Vista) Free space on hard disc: – 20 MB or more, but depending on the content amount, more space may be required. Monitor: High Color or more, 1024 x 768 pixels or more (True Color, 1280 x 1024 pixels or more recommended) Other devices: USB port (High-Speed USB Compatible) Internet connection (broadband recommended, some fees may apply) is also required on your computer.
Wireless / Networking
Wi-Fi : Supports HSPA, UMTS, Edge, and GPRS data services with two bands (850 and 1900 MHz)
Power
* AC Power : DC 5.2 V
* Battery Life (Approx) : 12,000 (ePub) Continuous page turns
* Battery Type : Rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery: DC 3.7 V
Display
* Gray Scale : 16 level gray scale
* Resolution : 600 x 1024 pixels
* Screen Size : Vizplex™ 7.1 inches
Stuff Sony Reader Daily Edition™ comes with
* USB Cable
* SIM Card (Pre-Installed at factory)
* AC Adapter for Reader
* Soft Cover
* Stylus
* Rechargeable Battery Pack
* Quick Start Guide
Final Thoughts
All in all this is a cool little device. I am not quite sure I am ready to fork over $400 for one yet, but I could see myself with one in the future possibly if it were say half that price. (I’m sure they will get there), but if you keep up with the daily headlines and you like to keep a good book close at hand one of these may be just the ticket.
[via Sony]
