Skiff Reader (Preview)
Filed under Larger eReaders
Slim, sleek and oh so sexy, the Skiff Reader is set to wow the ebook reader scene with its ability to render magazine and newspaper layouts with a look similar to a printed newspaper or magazine. Using multiple columns, photos, common type fonts and pagination, the unique Skiff is designed to take reading to the next level.
Display
Skiff has a very generous 11.5-inch display area with an impressive resolution of 1200 x 1600 pixels which is almost four times as many as other ebook readers already out there. That aside, the Skiff really sets itself apart with its first-of-its-kind thin, bendable stainless steel foil based-display rather than the glass-based displays favoured by other ereaders. Designed by LG Display, the Skiff Reader screen is built to take the wear and tear that portable tablets would likely endure–in the car or classroom, on the train or bus, and just about anywhere else you’d take a newspaper or magazine.
The touchscreen accepts both finger and stylus input and enables users to intuitively navigate and engage with newspapers, magazines, books, and other digital content they purchase through the Skiff Store, as well as personal and work documents.
The drawback of all of this is that there is no colour so the Skiff won’t double as a media player. Measuring 9 inches (228.6 mm) x 11 inches (279.4 mm) and weighing just over 17.5 ounces (498 grams), the Skiff Reader is remarkable light and portable despite its large size.
Software
At the moment, we know that the Skiff will feature both wi-fi connectivity as well as 3G via the Sprint network. It is equipped with an internal memory that has a capacity of 4GB (with 3+ GB available for content) while the SD-card slot means, there is room for still more. It will also be possible to sideload content with its standard USB port.
With regards to content, there is going to be a Skiff Store, which will look after the entire spectrum of selling and distributing newspapers, magazines, books, blogs and other content from multiple publishers across a range of devices. It is also likely that the newspapers and periodicals that is to be distributed by Skiff Reader will also feature advertising which is a first for ebook readers. The Skiff also scores as it looks likely that its newspapers will have most of the graphics of the actual paper editions.
Battery life
The Skiff website claims that you will be able to read for a full week between charges which is a broad statement so we will have to wait and see on that one.
Conclusion
When and where can we get one?
