Fujitsu release new colour e-paper display

Posted on 11 May 2010 at 12:02

Fujitsu has announced a new electronic paper technology that promises to make high-quality colour eReaders a reality sooner, rather than later.

Based on work carried out at the company's Japanese research labs, the new electronic paper prototype won't be officially unveiled until later this week during the Tokyo International Forum - but early indications are it's a winner.

Built as a major redesign to the company's existing colour e-paper technology, the latest model features a 7:1 contrast ratio - a threefold improvement over previous models - and a page turn speed of 0.7 seconds based on an image size of 1,024x768.

While the specifications might seem a little underwhelming, it does represent an impressive leap forward for the technology. Traditional black e-paper displays have proven surprisingly easy to manufacture - and, thanks to their high readability in sunlight and incredibly low power draw are a staple of the eReader market - but colour eReader devices have relied on the use of backlit LCD panels, with a corresponding drop in battery life.

Products based around the new display are due for launch in Japan by the end of this year, although Fujitsu hasn't yet announced international availability. With the company's previous colour e-paper focus being on the professional market with its FLEPia "portable information terminal" rather than the consumer eReader market, it could be a while before colour eReaders hit shop shelves - but this announcement shows that they are coming.

Author: Gareth Halfacree

Get more reviews, tutorials and in-depth advice, every month with Computer Shopper.
Click here to try 3 issues for £1

< Previous News : eReaders Next >

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to Login or Register to comment.