Sharp rolls out SP700 media jukebox, dictionary combo
updated 10:55 am EDT, Wed October 10, 2007
Sharp SP700
Hoping to cater to travelers who may need to learn a language as well as have a source of entertainment on the road, Sharp today unveiled its new SP700 media player. It serves as a full entertainment device with MP3 music as well as video in DivX, most MPEG formats, WMV, and XviD formats; users in Korea can also tune into digital wireless broadcasts through a DMB tuner and antenna. On a vacation or business trip, the device can instantly become a learning dictionary, according to Sharp: the 30GB hard disk inside stores multiple learning guides and reference dictionaries for Chinese, English, and Japanese as well as optional packs for other languages. Video capability and a stylus-driven touchscreen mean users can receive visual and hands-on instruction without needing a teacher close at hand, the company says.
The SP700 also doubles as an eBook reader and runs Windows CE 5, allowing relatively simple add-ons from Sharp or third parties. Battery life is unavailable, though the device should be available in Korea today for the equivalent of $521. Releases in other territories are unknown and will most likely center around Japan and other southeast Asian countries where hybrid jukebox and dictionary devices are the most successful. [via Akihabara]
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Aug 2007
ME WANT....
...and the Jukebox player ain't half-bad either. This device is what the iPod Touch should have been. This would make a great learning tool and has half-decent storage and playback codecs. Throw in the cutie and I'd buy it in a flash for $500.