After much fanfare and hype, Sony has revealed their new ebook reader. The new Sony Reader Daily Edition has a huge 7 inch touch screen display. It also comes with AT&T 3G connectivity, and the best part about this connectivity is that unlike any other devices that use 3G, there are no monthly charges. The Daily Edition comes equipped with Sony’s new ebook library software, Library Finder, which is now compatible with both Macs and PCs.
Before Library Finder, users had to be plugged into a computer if they wanted to download books. Library finder is an electronic ebook borrowing system, allowing you to borrow books like you would from a library and then ‘return’ it after specific period of time. This is done with the partnership of a Cleveland-based company called Overdrive Inc. What this system does is let the user register for an electronic library card. After the user is registered, then he or she will be able to see what ebooks are available at their local libraries by entering their zip code. Users will then be able to ‘borrow’ those books for up to 29 days. After 29 days the book will be erased from the device on its own, thus completing the entire cycle.
Sony’s Daily Reader also comes USB ports; therefore, the user could download files from their computer, even those in other formats such pdf or rtf. The internal memory can hold up to 1,000 titles. If that is not enough, Sony gave the Daily Reader a memory card slot so you can upgrade your memort at any point. In terms of construction, the Daily Reader’s casing is constructed out of aluminum, giving it a very solid feel in the hand. While in portrait mode, the Daily Reader can display 30-35 lines of text. The electronic ink display boasts 16 levels of grayscale.
Sony’s Daily Reader will be available in red, black, and silver and will cost $399.
