Dymocks launches iLiad eBook reader, at $900

Stuart Corner
Thursday, 13 December 2007 07:09

Your IT - Entertainment

Bookshop chain Dymocks has introduced the iLIad eBook reader into Australia, at a price which doesn't leave a lot of change from $1000. The move follows Dymocks' launch of an ebook retail service last month . Like Amazon's much hyped and recently launched kindle, the iLiad uses the electronic paper display technology which gives it an edge over other devices that rely on LCD and similar display technologies. ePaper gives a superior viewing experience - it is readable even in bright sunlight - but the price is likely to deter all but those who are gadget-addicted. It retails for $899. The kindle, in comparison sells in the US for $399 ($A450).

Dymocks CEO, Don Grover said: "After months of extensive product research, we are particularly excited to launch with the iLiad as we believe it is an exceptional product with many unique selling features not being offered by other brands."

Connectivity is via USB cable or WiFi. Books can be either download to it via a PC or direct in any bookshop selling books in the Mobipocket format. However, it can also display PDF, HTML and text files

The iLiad has been on sale in Europe since June 2006 where it was launched with an even heftier price tag of €649 ($A1075 at current exchange rates). It was developed by iRex, a spinoff from Philips. It is available from Dymocks George Street store in Sydney or directly through the Dymocks website, www.dymocks.com.au