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For Hardcore PC users tablet fatigue is slowly setting in. It seems like almost every week we hear another rumor or two about upcoming devices, and its only going to get worse. A recent patent application shows that Sony is the latest company preparing to pile on the bandwagon, but this time you might be interested to hear they are taking a page from the scrapped Microsoft Courier, namely its dual displays.
Described in the application as an "electronic book with enhanced features" the screens would take on different characteristics depending on its orientation. If held like a paperback book the device would simply function like a normal e-reader, but flipping it over into portrait mode would reveal and onscreen keyboard. It is unknown at this point if the device concept is for an e-reader or a multifunction tablet, but only time will tell.
Of course patent applications don't always become products so it could be quite some time (if ever) that this ends up seeing the light of day. What do you think of this form factor for an e-reader / tablet?
Comments are closed on this article
Keith E. Whisman
May 30, 2010 at 11:42pm
Alright I had that idea a very long time ago and it's being patented now. I am never again going to share an idea on the internet again until I have patented the idea so I can charge big bucks for companies that build products based on the design. That is essentially what Sony is doing. Damn. The Patent application looks simple enough. Shoot.
Digital-Storm
May 29, 2010 at 3:37pm
I hope they dont allow these patents for something that is just a modification of another device.
