The new IRex reader, shown at left, is priced from $649 to $849, and aimed at those who want to carry around documents in digital form- i.e. business users. Its rectangular shape measures approximately 10 inches, it comes in three versions (with varying features and prices) and reviews are mixed. Gizmodo did not think it lived up to its boast of being a next generation e reader (or Kindle) and noted that you need to pay about $900 for wireless connectivity, a NY times blog review pointed out it is easier to read in bright light and has better battery time, and the c net review is kinder, pointing to its larger screen and added features.
So let's get down to brass tacks. What does it do that the Kindle doesn't? According to the cnet reviewer, it flips pages more quickly, with less wait time. And
The touch-screen interface allows you to mark up and draw on documents with a stylus, making the display look and feel even more like a pad of paper. The device itself is lighter than it appears--it doesn't weigh much more than a clipboard. And Brons says the $849 wireless version will have a full-fledged Web browser that's able to deal with moving Flash images by converting them into static still images. That would be an upgrade over the Web browser on the Kindle, but still less than ideal. reviews.cnet.com
In terms of predicting what will come next on a Kindle or Sony e-reader, according to the reviewer at c net, this device will be a good predictor, since it's based on the same underlying technology. Rumors of a next generation Kindle are out there, but have also been quashed for 2008.
A few remarks: I use the Kindle as both a document reader and to read books. It does both tasks well and the screen size is comfortable, not too small. Since I use the Kindle as an assistive device, I cherish its low price compared to what items usually cost that are marketed for people with disabilities. I hate to see the higher price tag on this device and would rather deal with a very slight page lag and fewer features. (Basically, all you have to do is plan on turning the page before you get to the bottom.)
[You can read my reviews of the Kindle, by clicking on the tag below.]
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