CommuniCrossings Software for Mobile Learning and Communication

The following sections discuss devices, describe features, provide initial comparisons, and review a few "major" eReaders and tablets from companies with associated eBookstores. An introduction to terminology and examples:

eReader

eBook-only device

black&white "eInk" display; buttons/keyboard; internet? battery life: days, weeks; weight: ~8 oz.

'classic' Kindle, Nook; ~$100

tablet

eBooks (via eReader apps) and other apps (including 'enhanced' eBooks)

color LCD display; touch interface; web/email access, games, ...; battery life: hours

"small tablet": Kindle Fire, Nook Tablet; ~$200; 7" (diag.) screen

"large tablet": iPad2 ~$400+, "new" iPad ~$500+; 10" (diag.) screen; more storage, apps, connectivity, ...

more details about these and other features in the Features section

other devices can be used to read E-books -- to be discussed briefly later

smartphone, MP3 players: small (or no) screen?

desktop, laptop computers: portability?

non-major/non-publisher eReaders, general tablets: support?

General Discussion

• Personal Tech > E-Book Readers (NYT articles)
• Paper Or Plastic? (e-Readers still not satisfying, mature products); 3/9/2012
• An e-reader or tablet for Christmas? 12/6/2011
• Deciding on a Book, and How to Read It (NYT comparison); 8/11/2011
• Is a tablet or an e-reader better for students? 7/24/2011
• Nobody Needs a Tablet. So Why Are We Gobbling Them Up? 3/24/2011
• Are E-Books Cost Effective? The Pros and Cons of E-Books vs. paper: price; 12/7/2010
• Blurring the Line Between Apps and Books 10/24/2010
• What Kind of E-Reader Are You? Our guide to finding the best way to read books, mags, blogs, tweets, and newspapers; (chart); 9/25/2010

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