Jul 07, 2010

Digital Publishing & eReader Roundup: Internet Speed Test

3 million iPads sold in 80 days

In an article for The New York Times technology blog “Bits,” Nick Bilton writes that many publishers are “aggressively experimenting” with new devices (i.e. eReaders) that could potentially take the place of their current paper-based products. Interestingly, as Bilton notes, a lot of magazine apps don’t offer the ability for readers to link to or send what they read on the screen to Internet-based social networks like Facebook or Twitter … yet.

It seems as though an Internet connection is quickly becoming a prerequisite for all new digital devices, and specifically, their apps. If the eReader audience is expected to read and process information digitally, shouldn’t they be able to react to and share it digitally as well? Turns out most of them probably already do. According to a study by GfK MRI, “e-reader owners are far more likely than the average American to visit social networking Web sites.” While some people still prefer the feel of holding an actual book or magazine in their hands (nearly 70 percent according to digiday:DAILY), we can’t ignore the increasing number of consumers who are turning digital, and publishers as a whole are trying to keep up. Here’s more:

Data shows that eReader owners are social networkers (GfK MRI)

Digital Magazines Don’t Encourage Socializing (Bits Blog)

The Top Reason Why People Won't Get an E-Reader: Paper! (digiday:DAILY)

Apple: 3 million iPads sold in 80 days (CNET)

—compiled by Jennifer Sanchez

Posted By: Digital Trends Team