- The cost is too much for a single function device
- They are seeing the advantage of a multifunction tablets like iPad and these ebook readers pales in comparison to what one can do with such devices. Even though the makers of ebook readers are trying to add additional functionality to the readers, like the browser in Nook, they are pathetic at the best. With a device like iPad, one could go well beyond simple book reading to entertainment, web browsing, work related tasks, etc.. There is no way ebook readers can beat these multifunction tablet devices
- Though it is not important, reading ebooks with such ebook readers on the bed is a pain. Managing a booklight along with such readers while lying down in the comfort of one’s bed is a big pain
Sony dropped the price of its cheapest model, the Reader Pocket Edition, from $170 to $150, the second price cut after an earlier $30 drop in April. The Touch Edition Reader is now $170, cut from $200, and the high-end 3G Daily Edition Sony Reader is down from $350 to $300.
I think this is just a beginning of the price wars. It is going to get ugly with some big disappointments. In my opinion, it is time for Amazon and B&N’s to give away these ebook readers for free and focus on selling ebooks. Already they have a great strategy for the iPads, iPhones and Android devices of the world. They just have to focus on selling ebooks rather than spend their resources on device making.