You can always tell when someone is interested in buying new technology. They start by asking probing questions to see what things you value about a device. In my case my buddy wanted to know what I liked about the Kindle over paper books. For me it is simple to give a run down of many of the things I like but to make his life easier I let him borrow my Kindle. There is nothing bad about reading physical books but I need the ability to carry several books with me when I travel without the space and weight of an actual book. [click to continue…]
With all the hoopla surrounding the iPad Microsoft may have snuck in a sneak attack. Microsoft is breaking out their own tablet device which could take the iPad out before it takes off. Engadget has a picture of a device from Microsoft that is being called the Courier tablet. It is a dual screen device that has Multi Touch and a Stylus. Gizmodo broke early images of the Courier in September, 2009.
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With just barely a week away from Microsoft’s big week it looks like they are trying to have another one. Reuters.com is reporting that Microsoft and Amazon have signed a patent deal. In this deal Technology such as Amazon’s kindle EBook reader will be shared with Microsoft. According to the article Amazon would pay an undisclosed amount under the terms of the Agreement.
This sounds like Amazon is taking the threat of the iPad pretty seriously. I didn’t think they would be worried about it but I can’t imagine why else they would need to do this. I wonder if Microsoft will add Kindle software to Windows Phone 7 & and make EBooks a Hub on the interface. Back in 2000 Microsoft had announced a deal where Amazon had selected Microsoft Reader as the preferred format for Amazon.com’s EBook store. Amazon also uses Microsoft technology for their Unbox movie service. So these two companies are used to making deals together.
Stay tuned as we search for more detail.
Today’s Apple’s iAd announcement turned out to be pretty big news. Frankly, there are some attractive factors around this announcement, as well as some disturbing lacks. But I read a comment from the SimpleMobileReview.com site this morning that I really think hits the mark:
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As we get ever closer to the potential of an announcement of the mythical Apple Tablet, as well as offerings from a plethora of other vendors, it is interesting to see everyone get all excited about something that has been around for a long time now. [click to continue…]
Every time I mention eBooks, I often hear comments about what a bad experience it is. I hear it usually from someone who has never given it a try. On the other hand, I also hear people express interest, but then they comment that they just can’t afford it. What I want to do is give you a quick guide on how you can start experiencing electronic books with no cost involved Well no cost assuming that you have a computer available. ( I assume that because you are reading this!) I should caution you however, that this is very addictive and you will probably find yourself budgeting for the next great electronic reader. Beware!
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Previously, I introduced you to the Calibre Ebook management software. I would like to give you a little bit more information on how you can use this software with your smartphones. As much as Rod and I agree on technology, this is one place where we differ. I love my Sony Reader and I have the 800+ books I am working on reading there, ready to go. It is always in my bag or by the side of my bed, ready for use. Nevertheless, I constantly find myself somewhere, with 10 minutes to burn and nothing constructive to do. This is when I pull out my Droid or my iPod Touch and open up whatever book I am working on and get some reading done. Now, mind you, I can’t do this for a very long time. My old tired eyes just won’t support it. But for a few minutes, it works just fine, especially since I can boost the text size, just like I do on the Sony Reader, or Rod does on the Kindle. Here are some instructions on how you can use the calibre software to sync the books you collect to your device.
Are you one of the lucky ones who electronic reader (eReader) as a gift over the holidays? Or perhaps you have had one, but it hasn’t been what you expected? Or is this one of the items that you would love to have, but aren’t really sure if you would use it? Oftentimes, the difference between success and failure is just having the right tools.
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The Amazon Kindle is one of those devices that has found its way into my laptop bag. When I travel I, devour books and podcasts. I used to carry paper books but often left them at the hotel front desk as I had no desire to carry them to my next destination. [click to continue…]