Android-Based Alex eReader Now Available

Book worms can now purchase the Alex eReader from Spring Design, the latest e-reading device competing with the Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble nook in an increasingly crowded eReader space. The Alex is a dual-screen Google Android-based model that offers web browsing as well as ebook reading.

The Alex features a 6-inch display coupled with a 3.5-inch Android-powered LCD touchscreen, receiving its titles from Google Books over Wi-Fi.

The device will also support EPUB, PDF, HTML, TXT formats and the LCD touch-screen will offer a full Web browser, allowing users to check email, watch videos, and access a number of Android applications.

Dual Screen Features
The dual screen also offers a novel feature called LinkNotes. With it, authors can insert hyperlinks into texts that will launch in the Alex’s LCD screen, including multi-media and Web-based content. Users will be able to access the Web over cellular-wireless networks.

The Alex eReader ships with a 2 GB microSD card and has an expansion slot supporting cards up to 32 GB. It also sports a USB 2.0 port and comes with headphones, AC/USB power connector and a padded cover.

The device weighs 11 ounces and measures 4.7-inches wide and 8.9-inches high. 

Just Another nook?
With its Android-based software, dual-screen display and Wi-Fi connectivity, the Alex eReader closely resembles the $260 Barnes & Noble nook -- so closely that Spring Design filed a trade secret lawsuit against the bookseller last November claiming the two companies had previously discussed eReader designs in closed-door meetings and under a non-disclosure agreement.

Spring Design then attempted to head off the nook announcement by unveiling the Alex eReader just days before the launch of Barnes & Noble's eReader.

Pricing & Availability
The Alex eReader can be purchased now on the Spring Design website for $400.

It comes in two colors, black and white.

Source: Spring Design