PocketBook Unveils Illuminated XGA eBook Reader Prototype to Compete with Kindle Paperwhite and Kobo Glo
Where the next generation of eBook readers is heading has already been impressively demonstrated by Kobo and Amazon with their recent introductions. But it’s not just these two American companies that are bringing illuminated eBook readers to the market; a European company is also working on a similar device.
We’re talking about PocketBook, which showcased a display prototype at IFA 2012. The screen has a resolution of 1024×768 pixels and was equipped with lighting similar to what we’ve seen with the Barnes & Noble Nook or the newly introduced Kobo Glo and Kindle Paperwhite.
Five LEDs at the bottom edge of the screen illuminate the plastic film that is positioned directly over the display. Placing them at the bottom of the device certainly makes more sense than at the top. On the Barnes & Noble Nook Touch with Glowlight, you can see the LEDs shining out from under the edge during normal reading. As long as PocketBook doesn’t change the arrangement of the LEDs, this shouldn’t happen with their final product.
A video in Russian briefly demonstrates the prototype. Even if you don’t understand the language, you can still see the direction PocketBook is heading with its next device. It’s set to be released in 2013 and might even be available here before the Kindle Paperwhite.
