Sony Unveils Sony Reader

Posted on January 11, 2006

Sony has released information and specs about its Sony Reader about its Sony Reader, an ebook reading device, confirming rumors that Sony was working on a new ebook reader.

Ron Hawkins, senior vice president of personal reader systems marketing at Sony Electronics, says, "Our research has shown that people are looking for a device designed exclusively for immersive reading. The Sony Reader, with its electronic paper display, thin format and extraordinary battery life, fits the bill."

The USB-enabled device is the size of a paperback and is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Sony says the battery life enables at least 7,500 page turns before you need a recharge. It can hold up 80 paperbook-sized books according to Sony. Gizmodo notes that the Reader has RSS support -- with RSS support weblogs and news stories could also be read on the device. Gizmodo also say guesstimates of the price range from $300 to $400. The Sony Reader has support from major book publishers including including Random House, HarperCollins, Penguin Putnam, Simon & Schuster and Time Warner Book Group.