Sony has announced an update to its ebook reader, which it claims is the lightest on the market.
Weighing 168 grams and just 8.9mm thin, the WiFi enabled, 6” PRS-T1 is both smaller and lighter than the previous generation of readers and the company says the device can “easily fit into a bag or pocket”.
A touchscreen will allow users to swipe their way through books and to zoom in and out while 12 in-built dictionaries will enable readers to check the meaning of words.
UK Readers will also be able to borrow ebooks from public libraries via an on-screen ‘Public Library’ icon.
The new model also includes stylus with which users can ‘write’ notes on the page or highlight text.
“We believe in giving readers more freedom and flexibility while reading, and the new Reader Wi-Fi gives avid readers more access to content than ever. Bibliophiles can now buy, borrow or download free books wherever there’s a Wi-Fi connection,” said Phil Lubell, vice president of Networked Technology and Services Division at Sony Electronics.
Sony was recently confirmed as the technology partner of J.K. Rowling’s Pottermore website which will be the exclusive outlet for Harry Potter ebooks.
The firm is hoping to use the partnership to generate interest in its new reader, offering a voucher that enables fans to download free the first Harry Potter eBook title, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, when it becomes available.
In the UK Sony’s readers dominated the market until the arrival of Amazon’s Kindle and Apple’s iPad.