First Android E-Reader Features Two Screens

With book and tech companies of all stripes getting in on the e-reader racket, it was only a matter of time before we saw an Android-based device. Spring Design has unveiled its Alex e-reader, the first to run Google’s Android. In addition to Android, Alex features an interesting collection of specs including two separate screens. The first screen is a six-inch traditional e-reader display that uses e-ink, while the second is a 3.5-inch color LCD that is used to browse Internet content. The dual-screen interface is designed to allow the user to seamlessly find content via the Android-powered LCD and then pull it up on the e-reader screen. Alternately, it allows for playing of media embedded within books and articles on the LCD.

The e-reader also includes Wi Fi radio, stereo speakers, SD card slot and 3G support via EV-DO and GSM networks. With Spring Design claiming that it has been working with book stores, newspapers and publishers for two years, speculation is that this could be the rumored Barnes and Noble e-reader, which also reportedly runs on Android and features a similar dual-screen configuration. “Alex” also fits in with the terrible name that the B&N reader supposedly bears. We’ll have to wait for confirmation, along with general pricing and availability information. [via Wired and PC Mag]