EBooks: changing the publishing industry, PwC

1.5 

eReaders or Tablets?

Will multifunction tablet devices such as 

the iPad push eReaders out of the market?

In view of the strong market success in 

the United States, and notwithstanding 

the defects of and criticism leveled at 

eReaders, most experts expect that both 

device categories will co-exist. However, 

the prices of eReaders will have to drop 

further for this to occur. 

Representatives of the industry assume 

eReaders will occupy a niche market. 

They are suitable for people who read a 

lot and who do not wish to be disturbed by 

other functions, such as incoming emails. 

eReaders might also be attractive for 

elderly readers: those with weak eyesight 

can adjust the typesize and font size to 

make reading easier, while those with 

impaired mobility can purchase new books 

from the comfort of home. 

The experts are convinced that both breeds 

of devices – tablets and eReaders – are 

at the early stages of evolution and will 

undergo significant changes. The experts

expect that the devices will be merged, 

particularly if color eInk displays become 

marketable. The trend is going clearly in 

the direction of more usability, connection 

to mobile networks, and color.