NPD says e-readers good, but many want

Nearly all those who own e-book readers are content with what they own but often want more, the NPD Group discovered today in a new study. Roughly 93 percent of owners are either "very" or "somewhat" satisfied. However, less than half (46 percent) of those talked to in November are largely happy with the e-books they could get for their readers, and 39 percent couldn't find every book they wanted.

The examination also showed a significant level of expectation for improvements in the technology itself. Besides 42 percent wanting more books, 39 percent want longer battery life and 34 percent want a color screen. Analysts also saw that many didn't consider the dedicated reader their only e-book devices: 30 percent used a secondary device, like a computer or smartphone, to keep reading.

Apple comes into the business with a largely favorable environment, as 60 percent of readers like the Internet access on their devices the most, helped in part by the dominance of the Amazon Kindle. Only 23 percent prefer touch, but devices like the Sony Reader Touch Edition and iRex's line are in the minority. The iPad has significantly shorter battery life but will also have a color touchscreen, 3G and Wi-Fi. Five of the top six main publishers are also known to be onboard.

By Electronista Staff