If the e-reader price war between Amazon and Barnes & Noble didn't cause panic for other companies,
When equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity for $139, the third-generation Kindle is the cheapest mainstream e-reader around, and the $189 3G version undercuts all other e-readers with mobile broadband connections.
This spells disaster for other e-reader makers, who have either relied on prices or features to hold some kind of edge on the Kindle. With the exception of Barnes & Noble's Nook, which closely matches the Kindle on price and features while luring shoppers in its bricks-and-mortar stores, the competition now needs to make some major adjustments. Here are four e-readers whose future is now in jeopardy:
Sony Reader
That's not a dealbreaker -- Sony's support for the open ePub format and free local library e-books distinguishes it from the Kindle -- but the lack of 3G or at least Wi-Fi in its low and mid-range Pocket and Touch Readers is a major drawback. Connectivity is now the standard in e-books at any price, and Sony won't be able to compete without it.
Kobo E-Reader
Kobo's main business model is e-books and branded bookstores, so theoretically the e-reader can hit rock bottom. Until that happens, the Kobo E-Reader doesn't stand a chance.
Plastic Logic Que
The 10.7-inch screen made for an interesting idea, but a tough one to justify at $650 for the basic version. I imagine Plastic Logic needs time to reevaluate that price, but the longer the wait, the harder it gets to stay relevant.
Spring Design Alex
Price aside, Alex is also twisting in the wind without the backing of a strong bookseller.
A supposed partnership with Borders never materialized, so you can't find the Alex in stores, either.