Is there an audience for digital newspaper editions that can be read not only on the Web or a PDA but on a device especially designed for this purpose? The Belgian newspaper
De Tijd seems optimistic about this. Starting in April, it will allow 200 users to test its digital edition delivered to a device called the
iLiad eReader from iRex Technologies.
This device uses an "electronic paper" display and therefore should be readable in full sunlight. Content is received via wireless or regular LAN, USB, Compact Flash or multimedia card. The manufacturer claims that the iLiad's rechargeable battery lasts for more than a week without recharging, based on an average use of three hours of reading per day.
The De Tijd trial is scheduled to run for three months. Several partners, including Ifra (a leading international association for newspaper and media publishing), are interested in the results. More info, see this Ifra magazine article (PDF).
