Sony launches next-gen eBook reader

Sony today launched its first major update to its Reader eBook handheld. The new device is the first to reflect Sony's newer, more open approach to media playback and now works as a simple USB mass storage device: users can copy books and create folders on the device by using their operating system rather than a custom software program. The Reader can optionally be set up to automatically sync with specified folders. Controls have also been improved for a more natural feel, Sony says; page turn buttons and other parts of the interface more closely resemble what users would expect.

A new version of the Reader stores 160 eBooks and accepts more stored on either Memory Sticks or SD cards; aside from copy-protected books from Sony's CONNECT eBook store (accessed through Windows only), the device displays PDF, RTF, and raw text as well as several image formats and AAC/MP3 audio. Through the use of an ePaper display, the PRS-505 can average about 7,500 pages on a single battery charge. Sony ships dark blue and silver versions of the Reader this week for $300 with a protective cover.