Project PDA

Franklin eBookMan (1999-2002) is a handheld device specifically made to read ebooks, but it also has standard PDA functions, it plays audiobooks and other audio, and it can record sounds. It has a black on green touchscreen (some models have backlight), 8 or 16 MB memory, and uses its own proprietary operating system. Its handwriting recognition accepts nearly natural handwriting.

It has a black on green touchscreen (some models have backlight), 8 or 16 MB memory, and uses its own propriety operating system. Its handwriting recognition accepts nearly natural handwriting. The DRM is tied directly to the hardware.

At first glance, it's easy to mistake the eBookman for a Palm OS PDA that sports an ample backlit 200-by-240-pixel LCD screen. While its proprietary OS is not very sophisticated, the eBookman lets you synchronize with Outlook via Intellisync synchronization software. And while the eBookman has all the contact management synchronization functions you'd expect from your Palm PDA, all of this takes a backseat to the eBookman's true calling: entertainment

The Franklin EBM-901 eBookman is an 8 MB multimedia reader and content player in a pocketable format. With the eBookman, you can download and read or listen to thousands of your favorite books. For reading comfort, the eBookman has a large display that shows 87 percent more information than other handheld devices

The display is backlit and is easy to read in both dim and very bright light. If you need to check a definition while reading a book, the eBookman comes with an easily accessible Merriam-Webster dictionary. You can also listen to music by downloading your favorite songs in MP3 format.

Franklin and Microsoft are collaborating on a version of Microsoft Reader for all models of Franklin's new eBookman, a line of multimedia reading devices introduced today at PC EXPO 2000 in New York City. Based on Franklin's proprietary RISC processor, eBookman will offer a powerful platform for purchasing and reading eBooks created for Microsoft Reader. The eBookman will provide the portability and ease of use of all eBooks offered for Microsoft Reader, including audio books from Audible Inc.

The relationship between Microsoft and Franklin will also establish Franklin's Web site, http://www.franklin.com/ , as an authorized Microsoft Bookstore, allowing eBookman owners to purchase content in Microsoft Reader format directly from Franklin as well as from other Internet e-booksellers.

With a 240 x 200 pixel LCD display -- significantly larger than typical handheld devices -- and capabilities to ensure the highest levels of security, the eBookman is designed for an optimal eBook reading experience. Scheduled for retail availability this fall, the eBookman will also include a robust feature set including multimedia functionality.