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In keeping with the iRex tradition of wide-screened reading devices, the upcoming iRex DR 800SG will sport a large 8.1-inch touch panel display. At the same time, it’s bringing improved features and functionalities due to a tandem with a bookstore giant (Barnes and Nobles), a leading chip supplier (Qualcomm), a reliable wireless network (Verizon Network), and even a retail presence (Best Buy). With its global 3G access and support for open format, it is an enticing proposition for people who love open and boundless access to books and other content.

Features – Hardware and Software

At 8.1 inches, the screen display of the iRex DR 800SG is 2 inches wider than the Kindle 2 and the Nook. Even so, the actual iRex device is shorter than its rivals and only heavier by half an ounce. The secret lies on its streamlined, minimalist design; it is mostly screen with no physical keyboard and no extraneous spaces. To maneuver through menus or turn pages, there’s a flipbar unique to the DR 800SG and menu button on the left side of the device. You can also use the stylus to run on-screen tasks such as activating hyperlinks or searching your library. The DR 800SG measures 7.6″ tall x 5.9″ wide x 0.4″ thick only.
Its built-in ebook mall, along with support for open format, is one of the best things about the new iRex reader. You can easily browse and purchase from a comprehensive range of content sources directly from the device. Irex has teamed up with Barnes & Nobles, Libre Digital, and Newspaper Direct. B & N alone has over 750,000 titles. However, the periodicals and magazines on the e-bookstore are exclusive for the Nook only. For choice of broadsheet publication, people can go to Newspaper Direct. This digital network hosts more than 1400 magazines and newspapers from nearly 100 countries around the world.
The DR 800SG’s 3G connectivity is powered by Verizon Wireless Network. iRex picks the bill so eReader owners are not tied to contracts or monthly charges. iRex has also integrated the Gobi multi-mode 3G including Qualcomm’s mobile broadband technology, which provides the device’s global 3G access. 
You can store around 1500 books and images in the DR 800SG’s 2G storage.

The Bottom Line

The iRex DR 800SG will arrive in selected Best Buy stores in October this year with a $399 price tag. Despite some missing features, the iRex DR 800SG is an exciting proposition for people who value great reading experience.

>b>Pros With wide screen comes more lines per page, making the Irex one of the best devices for viewing newspapers, magazines, and books laden with graphics. Excellent folder system for different types of files makes search for ebooks, images, newspaper, and other files quite a breeze. With no additional layer over the screen, iRex DR 800SG’s touch panel from Wacom lacks the glare found in touchscreens like Sony’s. Cons Despite its touch-enabled display, there’s no drawing, no doodles, no making notes using one’s handwriting for the DR 800SG. To input text, you have to use the onscreen keyboard. Also, the 3G access only connects you to B&N store and other stores in the ebook mall. Since the DR 800SG has no web browser, purchases from other sites have to be done from a computer or laptop. The touch panel display will only respond to a special stylus. The stylus is very small and there’s no slot or place on the device where you can put it. Once misplaced, you have to wait for a replacement before you can enjoy the convenience of touch navigation. While the flipbar works well, placement limits use to your left hand. It would have been nicer if iRex has integrated controls on the right side of the device so you can easily switch hands. With no audio support, you can’t play songs or audiobooks on the device.

What’s in the box: REX Digital Reader 800SG Protective sleeve Stylus Micro-USB cable Wall charger with US plug Quick start guide

Main Features •8.1-inch e-ink screen and touch-enabled panel from Wacom •Free 3G access in the US via Verizon’s wireless network •Gobi-powered global 3G access •2GB removeable micro SD card • 16 grayscale level •768 x 1024 pixel resolution Key Features: •User-replaceable battery •Supports Adobe DRM files •Ebook mall application has access to B&N, Libre Digital, and Newspaper Direct.