Some of our readers will remember Panasonic’s Android e-book reader prototype that we showed you a couple of weeks ago, and it looks like Panasonic has just announced it in Japan and it is now called the Panasonic Raboo UT-PB1.
The Panasonic Raboo UT-PB1 features a 7 inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. Processing is provided by a dual-core processor, ensuring smooth performance for reading and basic tasks. It also comes with 8GB of built-in storage, although only 4.5GB is available for user storage. This should be sufficient for storing a decent collection of e-books and some multimedia content.
Additional Features and Connectivity
This new Panasonic e-book reader comes with a microSD card slot, allowing users to expand the storage capacity if needed. This is particularly useful for avid readers who may have extensive libraries. The device also includes a 1.3-megapixel camera, which, while not high-resolution, can be handy for quick snapshots or video calls.
In terms of connectivity, the Raboo UT-PB1 is well-equipped with Bluetooth and 802.11 b/g/n WiFi. This ensures that users can easily connect to the internet to download new e-books or sync their reading progress across devices. The inclusion of Bluetooth also means that users can connect wireless headphones or other peripherals.
Customised User Interface and Limitations
The Panasonic Raboo UT-PB1 runs on a customised Panasonic UI, which is designed to enhance the e-book reading experience. However, it is important to note that despite running on Android, it doesn’t look like you will be able to run standard Android apps on it. This could be a limitation for users who are looking for a more versatile tablet experience. The focus here is clearly on providing a dedicated e-book reader with some additional functionalities.
For those interested in comparing different mobile platforms, take a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
Pricing and Availability
The Panasonic Raboo UT-PB1 will go on sale in Japan in August for 34,800 Yen, which works out at around $440. This price point places it in the higher range of e-book readers, suggesting that Panasonic is targeting a premium market segment. The combination of a high-resolution display, dual-core processor, and expandable storage makes it a compelling option for serious readers.
The Panasonic Raboo UT-PB1 offers a robust set of features for an e-book reader, including a high-resolution display, expandable storage, and multiple connectivity options. However, its inability to run standard Android apps may be a drawback for some users. It will be interesting to see how it performs in the market and whether it can carve out a niche for itself among other e-book readers and tablets.
Source Akihabara News
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
