Electronic paper is touted as one of the most viable options for newspapers in the years ahead because of its capacity to reproduce text and images with greater lines of definition and by using natural light --- as opposed to backscreen illumination --- in its presentation. Thus, easier on the eyes, with the electronic benefit of updated information.
In this context there is a very revealing interview with Ryosuke Kuwata, in charge of the Asia Pacific region for E-Ink, the electronic paper firm. He predicts that the first commercial applications in e-paper newspapering will emerge in the second half of 2009. Verification of the technology seems to be taking place starting later this year.
Kuwata also notes that the Hearst Corp. is looking at developing a proprietary terminal to carry the product in the U.S., and that Le Monde is examining its options in this field.
