All a matter of preference and pure opinion. Samsung announced today that they will no longer make ePaper devices and will instead concentrate on LCD ebook devices. My prediction is that we will see even more LCD Devices (multiple function) than eInk devices (single function). eInk will always have a market, due to folks who will buy it due to their preference, but the LCD market has a bigger opportunity for growth because:
1. You can read in the dark. As a frequent reader, having to carry an attachable light to read on a portable device seems absurd. Having to turn on a lamp when my wife is sleeping when I can easily be considerate to her and use an LCD device seems like a good idea.
2. LCD readers have Converging (multiple) features. They put an LCD screen on the Nook. Why? Add features. Why not just use an LCD screen? Seems kind of silly to me. Someone in a previous post noted that the iPad sold many devices and now LCD is just the next fad. That is partially true. The whole truth is that Apple made a high quality device that delivers a very powerful user experience for a semi-decent price. Reading is just part of the recipe. Now we are looking at 99 cent TV episode rentals and all kids of multimedia on the thing. These other companies would be foolish not to try to compete with LCD devices that offer similar features. I don't think that means your eInk readers are going anywhere, because Amazon remains dedicated and as long as they are you will have them and anyone who chooses to compete. Still, let's just look at reality and the possible uses for mobile devices and realize that LCD devices can be used for much more than eInk. Will color eInk change the game? We'll see. I have my doubts about video.
Two good reasons for LCD popularity. It doesn't matter what I say though, just watch the market as it unfolds. Everyone has opinions, but a year ago many of you scoffed at the idea of LCD devices overtaking eInk readers. You can't look at any technology site or news now without seeing an advertisement or story about iPad or some Android slate/tablet device/phone.
P.S. Although some folks have the opinion that eInk is easier on the eyes - it isn't a proven fact. To me, and I hate to ignite the flames here, but it is just another marketing ploy. I have yet to see an eInk reader advertise that it was better for your eyes than an LCD device. Look at Amazon, Sony, or Nook. They may claim easy on the eyes, but never claim better FOR the eyes. Eye strain is eye strain. The only time you are going to get it more from LCD is if you are reading in complete darkness. On the other hand, turning on a lamp to read a normal book can cause just as much strain. Since none of what I say above is fact, I can only say it is my opinion as well. If some of you find eInk easier on your eyes, it may just be. Who knows?
