thalia to sell oyo e-reader with wifi and touchscreen

The German book retailer Thalia has introduced its proprietary electronic reading device, the Oyo. Priced at 139€, the e-reader features a 6-inch SiPix display and includes a touchscreen interface along with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity.

In addition to its wireless capabilities, the device is equipped with 2GB of internal flash storage, a microSDHC expansion slot, and compatibility with Adobe Digital Editions. The Oyo is currently available for pre-order, with shipments expected to begin this October. The device is designed to integrate seamlessly with Thalia’s existing digital bookstore, and the company has indicated that a version featuring 3G connectivity is in development for a later release.

Technically, the Oyo is identical to a prototype previously showcased by Medion earlier this summer. While the SiPix screen technology offers a different visual experience than competitors like Sony, some early observations note a white-flash refresh method rather than the traditional black flash seen on most electronic ink displays.

The launch of the Oyo represents a broader expansion of the hardware into other markets. Beyond Germany, the device is slated for release in Poland through the retailer Empik. Furthermore, other European booksellers, including Fnac and Chapitre, are expected to market the same hardware under different branding or slightly varied price points as part of a coordinated retail partnership.