TECHNOLOGY FOR CHANGE

Newspaper's Not Dead, It's Reincarnated

Dave Greenfield | Date: 02-10-10 | Comments

A new prototype from LG could lead to electronic paper for books, magazines and more.

For those who miss the tactile sensation of reading the morning newspaper on actual paper, there may be hope. LG�s flexible E-Paper gives a glimpse into the best of both worlds: the convenience and versatility of an e-reader and the oversized flexibility of a newspaper. While LG creates the prototypes, not the finished products, products using its E-Paper technology could replace traditional newspapers and magazines while eventually adding audio and video experiences for the reader.

Says LG spokesman Lee Bang Soo, �This will be the start.� What exactly does the start look like? LG�s display model is only 0.3 millimeters, almost paper-thin. Rather than relying on a glass substrate, the E-Paper display uses thin-film transistor on metal foil, which allows the device to bend like paper. The entire sheet is 9.8 inches by 15.7 inches, and weighs in at a petite 4.6 ounces. Again, the LG model was a display only, and the weight and width will increase as manufacturers add touch-screen technology.

While there are no e-readers on the market currently that are large enough to provide a more newspaperlike experience, the Hearst publishing company is poised to introduce its 11.5-inch Skiff Reader later in 2010. The Skiff uses LG�s panel technology and will let users download newspapers, magazines and books via Sprint�s 3G network. The Skiff Reader features 1,200-by-1,600 resolution, 1-pound weight, extensive portability and single charges lasting up to a week. Like its older brother, the Skiff is in black print only�for now.

Gilbert Fuchsberg, president of Skiff, says, �The Skiff Reader�s big screen will showcase print media in compelling new ways. This is consistent with Skiff�s focus on delivering enhanced reading experiences that engage consumers, publishers and advertisers.� E-readers like this may well provide relief to the drowning newspaper industry. Look for the Skiff reader in Sprint retail outlets later this year.