E-reader producer Bookeen is aiming to bring multi-functionality to e-paper devices, in order to challenge the iPad-inspired tablet products entering the market.
The company's e-reader, the Orizon, will include a six-inch touchscreen when it enters the market in Q3 2010.
And the company is planning to add further features in 2011 that will make an e-paper device suitable to challenge tablet computers, which are expected to build on the marketing of the iPad.
Dahan comments: 'There will be an evolution of an e-paper screen that is colourful and faster, and it is our belief that there will be a convergence between tablets and e-readers.'
Some analysts have predicted that e-readers will struggle to compete with tablet devices - particularly the iPad, which is accompanied by an iBooks application to download e-books.
Multi-functionality
Monochrome, non-touchscreen displays with a slow refresh rate mean that e-paper devices may struggle if they target tablet computer customers.
Bookeen will reveal some of the elements required to make e-paper more compelling for users looking for multi-function products.
Says Dahan: 'The Orizon will bring touch and wireless to our e-readers.'
And the company is planning to follow this up with enhancements in 2011, to make e-paper more competitive.
Dahan adds: 'We're working in partnership with a funder for 2011, to bring the user experience of an LCD device to an e-paper device.
'In 2011, we will make some announcements for the Consumer Electronics Show for this.'
However, the company is currently focused on optimising its touchscreen technology in time for Orizon's launch later this year and will be available for around €250.
Dahan concludes: 'The first missing link to the LCD world is speed [of touchscreen operation]. Colour will come a bit later.'
Documents and links
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About +Plastic Electronics magazine
Your source of the latest news on the business and market strategies for organic and printable electronics, is available for just £95 for a complete volume
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Bookeen
The e-reader company is launching a touchscreen e-reader in 2010
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Could the iPad dominate the e-reader market?
With Apple's recent launch of the interactive iPad - coupled with its e-reader app, iBooks - could the hand-held device close the market out for e-reader devices?
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Big presence for e-readers at CES 2010
This year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) will showcase a wealth of products that exploit e-paper display technology within e-reader applications
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The Electronic Displacement of Print
A Pira market report with forecasts to 2018 of e-paper, e-readers and other innovations and technologies displacing and impacting print
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