E-Ink Developing eBook Device, Adobe Discuss Changes

E-Book Zone Reports from NIST eBook 2001 Conference in Washington D.C.

Editor's Note: This article was updated on 9 Jan 2002

According to E-Book Zone, reporting from the NIST eBook 2001 Conference, E Ink unveiled a prototype of an eBook reading device. Russ Wilcox, E Ink’s vice president and general manager, touted a release some time in 2003. The basic specifications are as follows:

  • Costs $300
  • 1 cm thick
  • 7" diagonal screen
  • 9 ounces
  • Powered by 2 AA batteries
  • Includes memory card slot
  • Syncs with PC via USB or parallel port

The biggest selling points of the device appear to be the proven, low energy consumption, as well as the high resolution screen.

Adobe talk about Acrobat Reader, Acrobat eBook Reader and Content Server

James Alexander, the director of Adobe’s e-book division, announced coming changes to the company's Acrobat eBook Reader and Content Server applications. According to E-Book Zone, the big change in direction for Adobe's Content Server application, which publishers will no doubt welcome, is that eventually it will no longer charge transaction fees.

Another move that will satisfy readers as well as publishers is Adobe's move towards merging Acrobat Reader and Acrobat eBook Reader into the one program -- a move that will quickly remove the confusion that exists among many users.