IMO, technology, especially computer type technology goes in a helixacal (helical?) cycle. Some time ago the technology allowed dedicated readers but were not powerful enough for multiple abilities. Then as technology improved we got PDAs, mobile phones, game boys, etc. These could do several things. Now with eink we have a better reading device but would like the multiple capability and color we had before but want to keep the easier readability of eink and the low battery use. Probably soon we will spiral up to that point and technology continues to circle and climb.
