Finally, after a long wait, a new batch of the PineNote Community Edition featuring a flexible Debian Linux operating environment based on GNOME for advanced end users has become available for pre-order:
www.howtogeek.com/pine64-pinenote-community-edition-preorder/
liliputing.com/pinenote-community-edition-is-a-399-e-ink-tablet-that-ships-with-debian-linux/
While I doubt this might already be suitable for non-tech minded end users who solely rely on ready made products, it can be safely assumed providing a solid usage basis for users with at least basic understanding how Linux works. Have a look at following github pages to get a preliminary idea about what usability level can be expected:
github.com/PNDeb/pinenote-debian-image
github.com/PNDeb/pinenote-debian-image/releases
pine64.org/documentation/PineNote/
The default reading program is our beloved koreader application!
Personally, I am looking forward to a full fledged Debian environment allowing to use this device for so many more purposes than just being a book selling frontend by commercial vendors trying to restrict its user's possibilities with outdated crippled Android variants. Finally an open-purpose device without vendor imposed walled gardens and just limited by our own imagination!
pine64.com/product/pinenote-community-edition-coming-soon/
Since the production run is estimated to complete mid November, with shipping starting right after, this might become the perfect Christmas gift for some.