I think the iPhone has generated so much interest in eBooks for two reasons.
1. Its display really is nice. It's a decent size, with no wasted space for plastic and things that aren't really needed in an eBook and the display is also extremely clear.
2. Most smartphones target business users. The Blackberry, for example, is popular because it can be tied to business e-mail systems. The iPhone, though, is seen as a consumer-oriented device.
Right now, the iPhone is far from the best smart-phone reader. But it definitely has potential--and it's generatings some significant sales.
I have a dedicated eBook reader myself, but I agree with Pournelle that most readers won't buy and carry a dedicated reader. You've got to read a whole lot of books to justify the investment in a reader and you've got to have big pockets to carry them with you. Which is why I use my iPAQ and Palm for reading as well as my eBookWise--I'll have one of my PDA devices with me if I get a few spare moments for reading, but I'll only have the eBookWise if I plan on reading.
Rob Preece
Publisher,
www.BooksForABuck.com