reader clears the FCC

A new Slick-branded e-reader from Southern Telecom recently appeared in FCC filings, indicating an upcoming release. While the specific launch date and retail price remain unconfirmed for the model, designated as the ER-701, several technical details have emerged from the documentation.

The ER-701 features a 7-inch display, matching the screen size of the brand’s previous models. Hardware specifications include a microSD card slot for expandable memory, though the internal flash storage capacity has not been specified. While early analysis suggested the inclusion of Wi-Fi—which would typically allow for web browsing and access to the integrated Kobo bookstore—subsequent updates to the report clarify that the device actually lacks wireless connectivity. Consequently, users will likely need to manage their libraries via a wired connection.

The device’s interface and internal design appear to originate from Gajah, a developer known for producing hardware for various brands like Elonex. Initial reports attributed the device’s performance to a Rockchip processor; however, a closer inspection of similar models suggests the ER-701 may utilize a BoxChip CPU instead. Multimedia capabilities, including ebook rendering and audio/video playback, are expected to be functional but basic, consistent with other budget-friendly devices sharing this architecture.

The physical design of the ER-701 includes a directional pad and dedicated buttons for navigation and page turns. Because the device lacks a touchscreen, manual navigation will be the primary method of interaction. Recent updates from Southern Telecom indicate that the ER-701 is scheduled for a December 2011 release. There is currently no information regarding the status of other e-reader prototypes previously showcased by the company at CES 2011.