Updated/Clarified post 26 April 2010
Quote:
Originally Posted by radi0j0hn
I have not upgraded my unit, as I am concerned that I will lose the ability to read some other format(s). Anybody done the deed and can tell me what is gained and lost? TIA
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You lose the ability to view LRX files (all other formats including LRF are still supported). If you have a bunch of LRX books you will have to re-download them from Sony in the new ePub format. The new ePub books you download will be viewed on your reader as left justified. LRF books will still show as full justification.
You lose any hacks that you may have installed on your device with no assurance that those hacks will ever be available for the new firmware.
You gain the ability to read regular ePub format ebooks and read Adobe Digital Editions DRM'd ePubs.
You gain the ability to use the Overdrive ebook lending that an increasing amount of local libraries make available.
You gain the ability to buy books from many stores beside Sony. Any ebook store that sells books in the ADE ePub format will now be an option. Stores like
BooksonBoard,
Fictionwise,
Kobo etc...
You gain the ability to treat your 500 as any other external USB drive without the need of additional drivers. For Apple OS X users this means you gain current support for your upgraded device from Calibre. Currently Apple OS X users are limited to version 0.6.29.
You gain (subjectively) increased resale value for your device should that be an option in the future.
You gain the ability to delete a book from your device without connecting it to your computer.
I hope this helps.