Next Apple iPod to do eBooks?

[balamw]

i thinking of getting an ipod but i need to know your opinion of it should i stick with an mp3 player? what can an ipod do that an mp3 player can't?

You might want to take this to a new thread.

That said, an iPod is an "MP3 player", but one that has a great user interface and complete integration with iTunes and the iTunes Music Store where you can buy music, audiobooks and even videos.

B

 

[kingtj]

re: resolution isn't really the problem

Despite all the talk about paper having "superior resolution" to displays, the human eye can't really tell the difference in the size of the dots making up the print past a certain point.

The main reason displays cause eyestrain when trying to read something like a book is the fact that they're backlit. Basically, it's akin to staring into a small flashlight. The much talked-about "e-ink" or "e-paper" is interesting because it would simply work with reflected light from existing sources - just like reading real paper.

If the other "video ipod" rumors are true, Apple is looking at using the new "OLED" display technology for the next iPod. That's not going to be quite as "paper-like" as the "e-ink/e-paper" technologies, but should provide better contrast (and resolution) than LCD technology. So that means it will be better than most devices at reducing eyestrain while reading, but not as easy on the eyes as a real paper book either.

Yes. Yes it would.

Until display resolution matches paper resolution, the e-book will remain relatively unpopular.

This does seem to make a serious run at the "iPod for Education" crowd, though -- fighting to keep brand loyalty with the kids, I spose ...

 

[Mammoth]

Apple can conquer any resolution problems. The only thing they can't fix is how much people bitch.

Print that on a t-shirt and watch the PC fanboys cry.

 

[Thanatoast]

Books are expensive these days. How much would e-books go for?

 

[balamw]

Books are expensive these days. How much would e-books go for?

If audiobooks are any indication, don't expect to save any money by saving trees.

B

 

[minnesotamacman]

i think i would rather read a paperback

wouldnt the screen strain the eyes?

I have seen ebooks in the past, of course a few years ago, but the eye strain was there. Sony has a new one, but they don't have a backlight, so they say it is just like reading a book. The cost of the books is what bothers me. For that amount, I like a hard copy on my office bookshelf.