With the buzz about the Coming eBook Reader Flood, the line between ebook reader and handheld PC is getting blurred. So allow me to clarify.
My Definition
An ebook reader is a device designed primarily for reading electronic books and media. While they may have other functions like email and web browsing, the primary function has to be reading.
Posers
Some of the new and on the way devices like the Microsoft Courier and CrunchPad are similar an ebook reader and exciting in their own right, but the fact of the matter is that they are not a Sony Reader or IREX Iliad. Compare these two videos.
Definitely cool, but concerns such as long battery life and minimizing eye strain take a back seat to touch screens and apps.
This is hands down a better reader. So the ebook reader flood may be coming but there is no need to drown in all the extra devices out there.

No one has forgotten Amazon’s unwelcomed and scary deletion of books from Kindle owners via their EvDO network, otherwise known as Whispernet. This has caused many people to be cautious of their kindle’s wireless capability and call for a change to the system. But the fact of the matter is that we want and we need Whispernet. read more…

I know what you’re going to say. How can I talk about never buying an ebook reader and call myself a fan of the very same thing? It’s simple, while I see ebook readers as a tool with endless potential, they are not for everyone. Mainly because of three significant drawback that will never be resolved. At least not in our lifetime.