Could the Apple Netbook Really Be an eBook Reader?

While an Apple netbook would be exciting, it also seems only logical that the company would make a move into eBooks as well. So, when we started to hear about the possibility that the new Apple Touchscreen netbook might actually be an eBook reader (already nicknamed the "TouchBook") we started to think about whether or not this would be a feasible move for the digital content giant.



We know the iPhone works well as an eBook reader already, we've tried it ourselves and enjoyed the experience, but sometimes that screen got small. If we were looking for an electronic device to replicate the experience of reading a book, the iPhone would have long been gone. But if the rumors out there are true that the 10-inch screens are actually being put to use as larger version of the iPod Touch (a rumor we first heard a while ago), that's when we start to get excited.

Plus, we already know Apple is vying for the opportunity to have the iTunes store be the provider of all things digital. Having eBooks there is not only a feasible but necessary move given the recent popularity of digital books with the release of the Kindle 2.

The Touch, with a larger screen, would be a huge competitor to the Kindle 2. Sure the Kindle's e-ink screen is cool, but if I can get newspapers and magazines in color and wirelessly, I would definitely opt for the Touch. It would open up eBook readers to a whole new market of comic book consumers and magazine readers. Plus, the Touch is an all-in-one device that will do more than read books. It would almost be insane to pass it up.

But, even if Apple were to surprise us with a TouchBook, we won't write the Kindle 2 off yet. Sure the Touch is only $200 right now, but the bigger screened version is likely to be much more expensive. Apple doesn't go cheap on their products or parts, so, even with color, the TouchBook may be far out of reach for most of us.

While we're waiting for more news on just what this new gadget will be, find out what the competition will be like for the new device with our comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the best eBook readers on the market or the best netbooks.

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