What ereaders allow user to add software?

[jjoensuu]

OK so the reason for this question is that as per my understanding many of the ereaders (such as Kindle) do not have a mechanism through which the user can easily add more software to the device, while some (such as Spring Design Alex) make this relatively easy.

The only differentiator that I am using between the "Kindle type" and "Spring Design Alex type" is that the former would require the user to get the new software somehow added to the firmware.

My reason for this question is that I would like to add a software for reading iSilo documents to the ereader, and although the iSilo app exists for Android, Linux, Windows, and some other operating systems, getting the software to most ereaders seem to require tinkering with an embedded OS (in that firmware).

Anyways so what I would like to ask is whether anyone knows of any other ereaders (besides Spring Design Alex) that have an existing (and relatively painless) mechanism for adding more software?

Thanks,

[jocampo]

I don't think you will find such capability on an eink reader. Most of them run on top of Linux but UI has been customized (or locked) for specific activities and the same goes for the kind of files that can or cannot be read on those.

You should be more comfortable getting a tablet with Full Android Market (Dell, Motorola or Galaxy Tab) or even an iPad. It will give you the flexibility of download external applications to read certain type of documents.

[HarryT]

Originally Posted by jocampo

I don't think you will find such capability on an eink reader.

Pocketbook allows users to easily write and add applications to their eInk devices.

[Runs4Brains]

I think the only devices that would allow you to freely install software/apps would not be considered dedicated eReader devices. They would be considered mobile pc's like the iPhone/Touch, Windows Mobile/Win CE, and dedicated Android tablets like the Galaxy Tab.

As for eReaders, you won't get this functionality without messing with the firmware. There are currently many cheap Chinese tablets/ereaders running various flavors of Android. Many can be rooted with varying levels of difficulty. But 99% of these things are junk from a hardware standpoint and aren't worth your time or money. Pretty much the only one worth it's salt (at a reasonable price) is the B&N NookColor which is essentially a well spec-ed Android tablet masquerading as an e-reader. Rooting it is about a 4 minute process and requires basically zero technical skills.

I know B&N WILL be adding greater app support to their stock NookColor, but even that will be limited. They only make money if you buy books through THEM. So giving you further options to read books not sold through them is not desirable. Like I'm sure you'll NEVER see the Kobo or Kindle Android apps in the B&N Android Market place (when/if it ever launches)