Borders' Kobo 2 to hit Australia before Christmas

Renai LeMay
Wednesday, 03 November 2010 15:45

Your IT - Mobility

Local book retailer REDGroup Retail today confirmed plans to offer the next generation of its Kobo eBook reader devices in Australia before Christmas, as well as an expansion in its eBook line-up that will see several major publishers add their titles to its library.

The company first launched the Kobo eReader device in Australia in May this year, primarily through its Borders chain, but also in Angus & Robertson, which it also owns. At the time, there was a paucity of options for Australians interested in the emerging eBook scene, although both Amazon and Apple have since that time expanded their offerings.

Company spokesperson Malcolm Neill said the group hadn't confirmed a release date yet for mark 2 of the Kobo, but said it was planning on a launch before Christmas.

Kobo 2 improves on the original model in several ways, the most notable of which is the addition of Wi-Fi access, which will allow readers to download books wirelessly as the Amazon Kindle and Apple iPad do. However, the device also now comes in three colours '” 'pearlised lilac', 'onyx' and 'metallic silver'.

Earlier today, Apple made a major announcement in Australia with relation to the publishers supporting its iBookstore marketplace, adding publishers like Macmillan, Hachette and HarperCollins to its list. However, Borders isn't being left behind.