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I suspect that demand for PVI's e-ink screens has probably not exploded from non-Sony device makers. That would mean that (1) by now, supply is much greater with expanded production capacities and (2) Sony is likely to be a dominant purchaser of the screens.
That should give Sony bargaining power, and may lead to reduced screen costs, and therefore reduced pricing (even if it's only through rebate deals or free books).
Just a wild theory, but it seems to make sense. Unfortunately, we really haven't heard any rumors about a Sony Reader 2, or any signs that there's even a reason to do that yet. Sort of reminds me of how Dell didn't feel much pressure to improve the Axim PDAs, because they had a market leading product for years even with barely any changes to it. But we can always hope Sony will eventually pump out new models like they did for the Clie. Well, minus the part about leaving the business all together! ;-)
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