The eDGe reader: Loser for schools

1

By David Rothman

The twin-screen eDGe reader—one screen E Ink, one a color LCD—is in the New York Times today with mention of a $490 price and a February 2010 debut. Students are to use the former screen for reading; the latter screen, for looking at illustrations.

But what if Pixel Qi or another technology can combine the E Ink and color modes? If Pixel Qi-style technology succeeds—I myself am hoping there’ll be more contrast between text and background than Pixel Qi has now in its e-reader mode—that could mean the end of the eDGe reader.

On top of everything else, I believe that laptop/tablet hybrids would be a better form factor. It’s far, far more efficient to type than to take notes by hand, even on a fairly large display. Yes, like the eDGe, the laptop/tablets could have touch screens. What’s more, they could be a bit larger than the current netbook screens and maybe even fold up for easier carrying.

I’m also wondering if textbook publishers will release overpriced bookware ballyhood as eDGE-friendly.

Bottom line: If I were buying gadgets for a school district, I doubt I’d be investing in the eDGe and similar products.

(Thanks to Dan Bloom for the pointer.)

1

 Print Friendly