Sony expands Reader e-book range

Sony will release two new Readers at the end of August

Sony has added two new digital readers to its e-book range to help meet the growing demands of users.

The Reader Pocket and Reader Touch Edition use Sony's Vizplex E-Ink technology, and support most text file formats including PDF, Word, BBeB files and epub digital books.

"We firmly believe consumers should have choice in every aspect of their digital reading experience," said Steve Haber, president of Sony's Digital Reading business division.

"Our goal is to expand the market and provide greater access to what consumers want to read when they want to read it, whether they buy, borrow or get it for free."

As the name suggests, the Pocket Edition is designed to be more portable than its predecessor. It incorporates a 5in display, and can store around 350 standard e-books and boasts a two-week battery life.

The more upmarket Touch Edition uses a 6in touch screen that allows users to navigate via gestures as well as highlight text and take notes using the included stylus or virtual keyboard. It also includes a copy of the Oxford American English Dictionary that allows usesr to look up a word simply by tapping on it.

Storage capacity on the Touch Edition can be expanded through Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD card slots.

Both devices will be available in the US at the end of the month. The Pocket version comes in a variety of colours, including navy blue, rose and silver, and will sell for around $199 (£116), while the Touch Edition comes in red, black or silver and will retail for about $299 (£175).

UK dates and pricing have yet to be confirmed.