Intel Reader for visually-impaired, dyslexics launched
After the launch of the Kindle, Nook, and the Sony Reader, Intel too has launched its own e-book reader, the Intel Reader, but with a difference. The Intel Reader is specifically designed for users with learning or visual impairments.
Photo: Intel Reader device Photo credit: Intel
The Intel Reader makes printed text accessible to users with learning or reading-based disabilities, such as Dyslexia or low-vision, by converting print text into digital text and then reading it aloud.
Intel has also introduced the Intel Portable Capture Station that allows users to digitize large amounts of text for later reading.
The paperback-sized Intel Reader has a 4.3-inch diagonal display screen and a 5-mega pixel camera placed on its bottom edge that allows users to point and shoot the desired printed text.
The Intel Reader stores the text in an e-book format and can identify columns and pages.
The device can read out the menu consisting of items such as Library, Recent Items, Shoot Mode, Settings, and Help.
Users can use controls to manipulate the font size of the printed text, the picture size, and even voice speed.
Photo: Intel Reader with camera on the bottom edge Photo Credit: Intel
The device can also play MP3s and text that is transferred from PCs and even allows users to create their own audio books.
The device comes with 2GB of flash memory storage and runs Intel’s Linux-based Moblin Operating System. It can store up to 600 pages of scanned text with up to 20 pages in the pipeline or up to 500,000 text-only pages.
Other features of the Intel Reader include USB 2.0, AC Power, Stereo audio jack, and built-in speakers.
Battery features
It comes with a rechargeable 6-cell lithium-ion 3300 mAh battery
Charging time: 150 minutes
With a fully charged battery, the Intel Reader can:
- Play over 4 hours of text-to-speech or mp3
- capture and process over 85 images of printed text
- Remain in standby for up to 5 days
The device will be available at a price of $1500, in the US, via select resellers, such as CTL, Don Johnston Incorporated, GTSI, Howard Technology Solutions and HumanWare.