Sony Reader Wi-Fi goes up for pre-orders
updated 06:50 am EDT, Sat September 24, 2011
Sony multi-touch Reader Wi-Fi ships October 16
The Sony Reader Wi-Fi (PRS-T1) e-book hardware is now up for pre-order through the Sony online store. The device will go head-to-head with the Amazon Kindle and the Barnes & Noble Nook, and is priced competitively at $149. With a look inspired by its Xperia smartphone line, the Sony Reader sports the latest generation E Ink six-inch panel that also incorporates mult-touch capabilities for the first time.
The new design sees Sony switch from aluminum to plastic, shaving 6-ounces from the product. It is also the first Sony-made e-reader to include Wi-Fi-only, which could also help to explain its long battery life estimated at five-weeks on a charge (or 14,000 page turns).
Another new feature is the ability for users to write notes or make highlights anywhere on a page, with or without the supplied pen. Additional capabilities include incorporation of 12 dictionaries, photo viewing, and music support. On-board storage is 2GB, which is good for 1,200 e-books, although this can be expanded by a microSD slot.
The Sony Reader comes in red, black or white and is expected to ship by October 16.
