A new Sony e-book reader, the PRS-T1, has just appeared at the FCC. The documents reveal the device has an 802.11n Wi-Fi radio onboard, and the model number, specifically the T, hints the device will get a touchscreen, though this isn’t guaranteed. The listing hints that the device may be out soon.
The presence of the fast Wi-Fi radio also suggests the device will have more capability and functions than just downloading and displaying books. It is likely to feature at least some multimedia playback features, including audio and video. A web browser may also be part of the design, though whether it’s purely secondary like on the Kindle or important like on the Nook Color isn’t known.
Sony has dropped hints that it would have new Readers in August. The lineup this year is expected to counter the wave of readers from the past year that have dipped below $150 and yet made Internet access a regular feature. Current Sony Readers only have Internet access on the top-end Daily Edition, whose $300 price largely puts it out of competition.
