eDGe is the first side-by-side screen device, a revolutionary eReader/netbook hybrid we can't wait to get our hands on to test. The eDGe (yes, the capitalization seems silly to us too) has two touchscreens, side-by-side e-ink and LCD screens, the former 9.7 inches diagonally and the latter 10.1 inches (the slight difference offends our sense of symmetry, but isn't too noticeable). The two screens are controlled by a single processor, so while reading the eReader you can launch color illustrations and such in the LCD. The eReader screen uses a stylus that can underline text, take notes, and launch videos and pictures. The LCD side has a virtual keyboard as well as audio recorder and video camera. The screens swivel, so the LCD can be tucked behind the e-ink one if space is at a premium, or for regular text reading.
It certainly is innovative, but there are sacrifices in this hybrid device. Of course the danger is the eDGe may not be good enough as either a netbook or eBook reader. Unlike pure eReaders with battery lives of around 2 weeks, the eDGe is only advertised as working for around 16 hours with e-ink screen on, and a mere 6 hours with the LCD on. Likewise, the unit weighs a hefty 44 ounces (nearly three times as much as the large Kindle DX for comparison), so it's not something you'll be able to casually hold in one hand. Likewise, although there is a stylus, there is no handwriting recognition software included. At a demonstration at the CES show on 7 January 2010, some commentators noted that the LCD screen looked dim, though it may have been the bright lights. While both screens are touchscreens, the e-ink one has the screen layer under the display, so it won't suffer the glare issues of putting it on top (like the dreadful Sony PRS 700). However, in these WACOM setups a stylus generally must be used rather than a finger, so it won't have "full" touchscreen functionality in the way most consumers understand it.
We love the concept, but do have serious concerns, as when CNET reviewers had a look at the device, they commented it was still buggy and "definitely has the look and feel of a first-generation product." Entourage Systems aren't the only ones working on a dual screen foldable eReader/netbook device either, as unconfirmed rumors continue to circulate that Microsoft is planning a device called Courier as well as Asus' forthcoming Eee Reader.
The unit will ship with 4GB of memory, about 3GB of which will be accessible by the user. The unit has an internal, 1.3 megapixel camera, and internal speakers. In addition, the eDGe also has two microphones for recording a lecture and blocking out background sounds with noise-cancellation. One of the big advantages of the eDGe is that the battery can be replaced by the user if it's ever necessary. And you can also buy a spare battery ($69.95), if you want to have a backup for busy days.
The eDGe uses the Android mobile system, so you should be able to run other mobile applications. It will have built-in Twitter and Facebook apps. The netbook side of the device will allow you to play movies or MP3s, organize your books, notes, and pictures, or let you instant message your friends. A browser and calculator are built in.
The eDGe is produced by enTourage Systems a startup based in McLean, Virginia. They call it a "dualbook" and it is specifically aimed at high school and college textbooks, with their detailed color graphics, though many students may find its price tag a bit much. As enTourage Vice President Doug Atkinson said, "The initial goal was to put a 30-pound backpack in a device. I think we've achieved that."
Connecting: The eDGe will have WiFi, Bluetooth, and optional 3G access (presumably by subscription as for cellphones). The unit will have two USB 2.0 ports for PC connection or power.
The eDGe is focusing on Google Books as its ebook download portal of choice, with over a million free titles for download as PDFs (all out of copyright and public domain works). This is all very well for older fare, but you won't find the new and popular stuff for sale here as you will on Amazon, something to keep in mind.
Accessories: The eDGe will ship with a stylus, power adapter, and quick start guide. Accessories for the eDGe will include a USB to Ethernet adapter ($24.95) if you can't use WiFi for whatever reason, Stylus replacements (one for $9.95 or three for $24.95), a spare eDGe battery ($69.95), and a spare AC power adapter ($29.95).
Price: The eDGe is planned for release in February 2010, though we wouldn't be surprised if this slipped. It is set to retail at a hefty $490, in the US only, though the company is said to be considering an eventual international version.. The eDGe will be available in midnight blue for this price, and a hefty $40 more for different colors--piano black, ruby red, glacier white, or ice blue.
The eDGE is large half-eReader and half-netbook device chock full of features, but its hefty price tag may limit it to a niche education market.
eBook Reader Basics