Quote:
Originally Posted by AnemicOak
That sums it up...
I'm glad I still have a couple of eInk readers and will definitely be taking one with me when I travel since I might spend some of my time reading outside.
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It's the outside thing where they are most useful and why it would be a pity to see the technology fade into oblivion, unless there is something to replace it then, for me, tablets would be a retrograde step. In-fact I'd go back to paper.
Quote:
Originally Posted by AnemicOak
As for eInk I find that for the most part I prefer my "old" Kindle Touch over my "new" Aura HD. Issues with Aura HD are what actually got me to try a tablet again.
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I didn't and wouldn't bother with a larger than 6" reader unless the form factor was such that it is no larger than current 6" models. However, I prefer the bezel being present to allow for comfortable holding. I think the problem with many of the modern e-ink e-readers is that the manufacturers have tried to emulate the touch capabilities of tablets to the detriment of usability. I've no problem with touch and really like having it present. BUT, I want page turn buttons, positioned by my right or left and left thumbs (or maybe on the back where my fingers can reach. In-fact I think that they are fundamental to an e-reading device. I'm not saying to remove the page turns from the touch aspect, just give me the choice.
In general I like the design of Kobo's new smaller 6" Aura, but as I mentioned
before I think the manufacturers of these devices are missing a few tricks: solar receptive case technology, removable (phone Type) batteries, Page turn buttons a "STOP READING - IT's TIME TO GO" alarm! I like my Kobo Glo very much, but wish it used Amazon's firmware. I think Kobo's firmware is too clunky and the shelf management is abysmal. Yet my old Kindle Keyboard is much better at this aspect (but by no means perfect) Why is it that simple library management functionality is so poor on e-readers? This is surely not a function of the screen display technology but more to do with supporting hardware and firmware. If tablets can manage this successfully then, it seems to me, there's really no reason for e-readers to be any different.
At the moment I don't like the fact that when my Kobo Glo's battery dies I have to throw it away. (I know many e-readers can be broken apart and aftermarket solutions retro-fitted, but that isn't for everyone) In these so called Green and Eco conscious days shouldn't we be making devices with in-built longevity? I have a solar powered scientific a calculator from the 1980's and it still works perfectly today, I use it regularly. E-readers should surely be devices that replace p-books, and remain usable over many years. After all e-readers are often the new storefronts for the book vendors; I would have thought that it was in their interest to make the device as appealing and long-lasting as possible designed for the purpose of obtaining managing and reading books.
I believe that if the manufacturers refined the screens a bit more and improved usability a bit to make them more useful and less clunky and concentrated around the issues of actually reading and managing ones collection of reading material, making it absolutely as easy as possible, then e-ink readers will have a much longer future. Unfortunately, although I believe tablets to be MUCH inferior devices for the purpose of reading printed fiction (my main reading matter) I suspect they might take over for a while. But like lcd calculators, e-ink readers will probably remain available.
Once again though. I do not read on my tablet or phone, unless I don't have my reader with me, because the moment it goes dah di dah - I just have to stop reading and check that e-mail / text / forum reply - whatever. When I read I put those devices on silent. Pick up my Glo and start reading WITHOUT interruption - like a p-book.
Regards,
Greg