Anything that reduces the need to carry around extra devices has got to be worth a mention — so how about a single gadget that can function as a Netbook, an eReader or a video recorder and player combined?
That’s what the new enTourage eDGe supposedly is going to offer. “The world’s first dualbook, combining the functions of an e-reader, netbook, notepad, and audio/video recorder and player in one.”
This means that with just the enTourage, you’ll be able to read eBooks, browse the web, listen to music, watch videos and use your IM, email and more.
So we were curiouse: What exactly would we be getting here?
According to the enTourage eDGe site, the device sports a dual screen. One, which is 9.7 inches with a 1200 x 825 resolution, functions as an eReader. This screen is touch-sensitive with a stylus.
The other screen, 10.1 inches with a 1024 x 600 resolution, operates like a touch screen Netbook. You can choose to view the screens horizontally or vertically.
The device is portable, measuring only 8.25 inches by 10.75 inches by 1 inch when closed and weighing in at just 2 and half pounds — so no problem carrying it around. Battery life should be about 6 hours.
The gadget makes use of the Google Android operating system, comes with 3GB usable memory and supports eReader file formats ePub and PDF.
For connectivity options you get Wi-Fi, 3G and Bluetooth.
There’s a virtual keyboard, an SD card slot, 2 USB ports and a noise cancelling internal microphone and speakers.
The internal microphone apparently can pick up audio from 30 feet away and converts files into mp3 format. I can imagine that would make life easier for students listening to a lecture.
The eDGe isn’t scheduled to ship until February (2010) so it’s still a few months away, though soon enough for the company to be taking pre-orders.
It comes in midnight blue for $490 USD (£299 or 329 Euros), or in Ruby Red, Glacier White or Ice Blue for $530 (£324 or 356 Euros).
Sometimes trying to be all things to all people can backfire but the device seems to make a lot of sense and looks pretty cool.
Must say though, paying $40 (£24.50 or 27 Euros) extra seems just a wee bit pricey just to get a different color. Don’t imagine too many will go for that.
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