Quote:
Originally Posted by Darqref
When I think about the ergonomics of my Rocket ebook, I think it breaks down into three parts.
1. The shape and weight of the device, making it comfortable to hold.
2. The shape, positioning, and function of the buttons, such that it's easy to use, easy to reverse or turn sidewise, and not subject to hitting the wrong button.
3. The possibility of having this thicker shape hold a more long-lasting battery.
So, here's a thought. The buttons and functioning need to be built into the basic device, but that could still be done with a thin device. Then, you (or someone) could make an after-market "holder" that would clamp onto the device to form a handle that would feel like a Rocket. It could have a proper grip, be weighted if it seems appropriate, or even have hollow compartments to hold extra SD cards or a USB cable to charge (if the cable were small enough anyway). As much as I'd like to see it, let the battery function go.
So, as long as the original device had a bezel that could accept the after-market grip, with buttons that were appropriate, it would still be "thin" and you wouldn't lose your market to the competition.
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Robertb:
Darqref has hit it on the nose. His #2 is the absolutely crucial part! Get that right, and we can find straight-forward solutions to the rest. Get it wrong, and fixing #1 and #3 won't matter (much).
The thicker, more ergonomic holder as an add-on accessory is a pretty good idea. It wouldn't even have to give up the battery support. It might, for example, contain an extra battery and have a wee little cable that snakes out and plugs into the power socket of the base device! As long as the holder also has a power socket (so I can still plug it in if needed) that'd be just fine. And if your base device's battery life is good enough, let the added batter capability go.
Note: replace "power socket" with "USB socket" if USB-only is the way you've gone. The overall point remains the same.
Xenophon