Mirasol

Update: the new e-reader is called the C18, we have full details here

Qualcomm is showing a new Hanvon-made e-reader that uses a Mirasol display.

We do not have a lot of information, beside the fact that the upcoming e-reader will launch in China and will have over 150,000 e-books and over 100 newspapers on launch.

Kyobo's eReader is the world's first color Mirasol (5.7", 1024x768) e-reader, which is shipping in Korea for around $300. Here's a nice hands on video showing the device in action:

PocketBook has released a PR about e-readers to be announced at CES 2011 (January) that includes a new e-reader that uses a Mirasol color display. Rumors say that this will be an expensive device that will feature 12fps refresh rate (not fast enough for video).

Pocketbook later said that this was a mistake... so we'll have to wait till January...

Qualcomm plans to invest $2 billion in a 4.5 Gen Mirasol production plant with volume production starting in 2012. The mainly aim to produce 5.7" color panels, mostly for e-readers probably. There are reports that samples have been shipped to customers already, and at least one 'major client' has started the design-in process.

Mirasol displays claim a 6X power advantage of E Ink, offer a fast response time (enough for Video!) and color.

Update: there's some new info on the Mirasol display. Qualcomm claims 6X power advantage over E Ink (even with color and video), they have a way to light the display, and it can be paired with a touchscreen.

Currently, all Kindle devices use E Ink displays. But now Qualcomm are readying their own efficient, fast, colorful, and cheap displays called Mirasol, and there are rumors that future Kindles might use this new kind of display. The current prototypes are 5.7" large, and should be ready by autumn.

Qualcomm say that a e-reader will launch in fall 2010 that will use their MEMS-based Mirasol display. The display will be 5.7" in size, with 1024x768 resolution. Earlier this month Qualcomm said that they are on track to deliver these displays late in 2010.

The Mirasol display is reflective and non-volatile (i.e. it does not require power if there are no changes). It has a fash refresh rate compared to other e-paper technologies, and can show 30-frame per second videos.

Via EETimes

Qualcomm says that they are on-track to deliver their full-color Mirasol displays for e-readers late in 2010. These are 5.7" displays at XGA resolution. They have a fast refresh rates, can play videos, and are readable in direct sunlight. Qualcomm says that the battery consumption is good, too.

Via Engadget