Comments on: Anti-DRM Kids’ Book

By: Sean Clark

Sean Clark — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 02:55:36 +0000

Here are my demands:
-I want to be able to read any ebook on my reader device.
-I want to see it without eyestrain, without it flashing black for a second between virtual page turns.
-I want to be able to manage my collection on my computer, where I manage everything else, and sync my reader as I see fit.
-I want color.
-I want to be able to access the internet through wifi (I’ll concede the phone functionality to you) and get a book from anywhere when it strikes my fancy.
-I want periodicals that update automatically.
-I want a device that weighs less than a paperback and is about the same size too.
-I want basic extra-ebook functionality, even if it’s only email and a calendar.
-And here’s the coup de gras, I want to pay less than $200.

You might say I’m being picky or over optimistic about technology. And yes to pull all that off in a single device we’ll need at least a few years. There’s no way Sony and Amazon and anyone else who gets involved is going to woo the masses with out some major R&D, and software support.

I want an eReader, and I have every intention of getting one, but to be honest in my research I’ve seen nothing that makes me consider pulling the trigger on the outrages price. Yeah yeah e ink is new and pricey. Doesn’t matter, to pay $3-400 bucks for a machine I have to tilt just right at the light to see comfortable, only to buy more books at hardcover prices like you noted in another post. I’ll stick to my shelves. This technology is at least one generation away from being viable for the masses. For now, in every category besides bulk mobility and text searching: advantage real book.

It’s a great idea that I want to work and I’m confident it will eventually. But not until someone actually tries to make a product intended to create a user base, not placate those who are already going to buy the next Kindle even if its just a heavy Wooly Willy.

By: Nico

Nico — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 01:29:21 +0000

Of course the devices aren’t here yet. That’s why the Great eReader Adoption hasn’t already begun. Basically the devices that exist today are just good enough to see how great they have the potential to be. Kindle 2.0 will be a great yardstick to see how much longer we have to wait until a really viable ereader comes along.

But I disagree that all devices will merge into one smartphone/reader/computer. Amazon and Sony will be much better served–at least in the short- to mid-term–to optimize their readers for reading, and not try to make them the answer to every problem. That kind of thing only results in products that have a bunch of mediocre features.

Down the line, maybe. But I think the Adoption will happen when somebody makes an excellent ereader that’s just an ereader.

By: Sean Clark

Sean Clark — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 20:47:29 +0000

Ah, dear Nico. I can’t wait for you post about this Great eReader Adoption so I can argue with you. While books will certainly go digital, at least in the mainstream, there’s no way big clunky $400 things with the screen output resembling and old Game Boy are gonna catch on as a mainstay to be found in every briefcase and backpack. When the transition to digital happens, it will be on devices that are not yet here (hint: they will have the functionality of a smartphone and pocket computer, with the ease-on-the-eyes of your precious readers–and they will not be built solely for eBooks). You’re right about the DRM silliness though.