Date: 22/11/2010

Qualcomm collaborate with bookseller Kyobo to launch $310 e-reader

Qualcomm MEMS Technologies Inc. partners with Kyobo Book Centre to launch Kyobo e-Reader in Korean market. This e-reader features high-resolution display tech called mirasol, which also displays vibrant color in bright sunlight.

The Kyobo e-Reader includes access to Kyobo's 90,000-ebook library, notably including early rights from Korean publisher Minumsa for the much-anticipated Steve Jobs' exclusive biography, a full one-month before any other Korean digital outlet. Additionally, the device features: video lecture content exclusive to EBS, a leading Korea-based provider of educational material; content sharing through Korean social networking services; English language text-to-speech capabilities; and searchable content through the popular Diotek dictionary application.

The Kyobo e-Reader features a 5.7" XGA format (1024 x 768 pixels) mirasol display (screen resolution of 223 ppi) and Qualcomm's 1.0 GHz Snapdragon S2 class processor. Kyobo's custom application interface sits atop an Android 2.3 base.

Kyobo's e-Reader is now available for purchase at the full retail price of KRW349, 000 (US$310). Kyobo Platinum Book Club members can purchase the e-reader at a discounted price of KRW 299,000 (US$265). Kyobo's e-readers are available at bookstore locations across South Korea, including Kyobo's flagship Gwanghwamun-jum location in Seoul.