E-Readers are Still a Big Part of our Lives
Emerging Hues for Future ePaper Innovations: A Glimpse into Six Approaching Colored Technologies
Ever since they first hit the market, e-readers have been a staple in many people's lives. With the increasing popularity of digital formats, it's no surprise that more and more people are ditching physical books in favor of their electronic counterparts. According to Statista, the e-reader segment is projected to reach a staggering 1,182.8 million users by 2026.
But don't rush to buy the latest e-book just yet. The color screen technology for e-readers is evolving at an incredible pace. Here are six of the best non-backlit technologies that are about to change the way we read:
1. Gallery E Ink 4100
The e-paper technology of the E Ink Gallery 4100 is something new on the market. It offers vibrant colors and can update black and white text quickly. However, there are still some unresolved questions regarding its availability, specifications, and cost.
Currently, the Gallery 4100 is only available as a development kit.
2. Electronic suspension display (DES)
DES uses a unique 'cofferdam' grid for its black and white layer and a red-blue-green CFA layer for its color. Because DES technology uses fewer elements in the display stack, it also provides higher color saturation. Additionally, it's simpler compared to E Ink, making it cheaper.
3. Electronic ink Kaleido Plus
E Ink Kaleido uses Color Filter Array (CFA) technology to create color. CFA is a thin layer of a colored polymer filter stretched over another panel, usually an electrophoretic panel such as an e-ink. Multiple layers create a full-color display, albeit at a reduced resolution compared to a standard E Ink panel. Unfortunately, the CFA colors are not visually appealing and look like Jet-Puffed Fruity Marshmallows.
4. TCL Nxtpaper Mid with Reflective LCD
TCL announced a new reflective LCD (RLCD) technology at IFA 2020 called Nxtpaper. Unfortunately, TCL's RCLD technology has been repeatedly delayed. With the impact of the pandemic on global supply chains, it seems to be in limbo. Video technology shows good color saturation, even with the backlight turned off.
5. Clearink
The reflective ClearInk technology is based on electrophoretic technology, similar to E Ink panels. Like E Ink's Kaleido, it uses a CFA layer to generate color. However, unlike E Ink, it uses a single black pigment instead of a two-pigment system. ClearInk first announced its technology in 2016 but has acquired partners such as Lenovo and Tianma.
6. Spectra electronic ink
E Ink Spectra is a multi-pigment electronic ink offered in mass production for retailers and electronic price tags. Spectra-powered EPDs offer the same high-contrast, sunlight-readable, low-power performance features as other display types but now with vibrant colors. The first generation of Spectra, E Ink SpectraTM 3000, contains black, white, and red or yellow pigments. E Ink SpectraTM 3100 includes black, white, red, and yellow pigments to meet retailers' demands for additional color functionality.
In conclusion, books of yesteryear were eagerly awaiting convenient electronic reading devices. Unfortunately, for all its revolutionary nature, the Kindle isn't the ultimate dream of true connoisseurs of books.
Forbes notes that consumers craving modern gadgets cooler than the Kindle will need patience. The Rolling Readius won't be released until next year. Seiko Epson won't even comment on when - or if - it will bring its ultra-thin e-reader to market. The writable iLiad is already available, but its $700 price tag puts it out of reach for most consumers.
Stay tuned for more advancements in e-reader technology!
Markus Reynoldsmarkus@ourwebsite
Markus is our resident video game and audio expert based in San Francisco, California. He has a keen interest in new e-readers and tablets, and gaming.
E-readers, such as the Kindle, are still a significant part of many people's lives, especially with the increasing trend of shifting toward digital formats. The technology behind e-readers is evolving rapidly, with promising advancements like the Gallery E Ink 4100, Electronic suspension display (DES), E Ink Kaleido Plus, TCL Nxtpaper Mid with Reflective LCD, Clearink, and Spectra electronic ink. These new technologies are aimed at enhancing e-reader capabilities, offering vibrant colors, higher color saturation, and simpler production methods.
