Creative is now the latest company to jump into the e-book reader market, with the company unveiling its new MediaBook e-reader device.
Although the company hasn’t formally announced the device yet, Creative is demonstrating a working unit of the MediaBook in Singapore. Creative’s first e-reader is reportedly using something the company has dubbed “Zii technology”. The unit will also boast a touch screen, text-to-speech and SD memory card support.
Several expected features that haven’t yet been disclosed include Wi-Fi, access to Facebook, Twitter, and support for other social networking sites. It’s very likely that the device will have Wi-Fi, but the inclusion of mobile 3G connectivity remains unknown. Rumors indicate that it may not have 3G.
The MediaBook’s OS also remains unknown, but since the Zii Egg uses the Google Android OS, it’s possible Creative’s entrance into the e-book market will also be powered by Android.
No launch date or pricing information has been released by Creative yet.
The actual introduction of a device is important, but possible licensing agreements with book publishers may prove even more important in the long run. Creative has agreements with 10 national and international book publishers and is seeking additional partnerships.
The Amazon Kindle e-reader leads the industry, but Sony, Barnes & Noble, Creative, and other companies are looking to get their piece of the pie. Although only a few companies are in the headlines, there are numerous smaller companies that also are interested in developing e-readers. Expect a solar-powered LG Electronics e-reader, an Asus e-reader, and other major companies to introduce niche products as well, analysts predict.
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