Google eBooks reader to debut in US

The first electronic book reader designed to tap into Google's vast online library will debut in the United States on Sunday.

A Story HD e-reader made by South Korea-based electronics firm iriver will be priced at $140 when it becomes available at US retail chain Target on July 17, according to Google Books product manager Pratip Banerji.

"The Story HD is a new milestone for us, as iriver becomes the first manufacturer to launch an e-reader integrated with Google eBooks," Banerji said in a blog post.

"It includes over-the-air access to hundreds of thousands of Google eBooks for sale and more than three million for free," he continued.

Story HD tablets let users wirelessly access digitized works at Google eBooks. The devices feature keyboards for typing search terms and "e-ink" screens that promise crisp lettering akin to that in paper books.

Google launched its online eBooks shop and library in December, making digital works accessible through Web browsers as well as smartphones or tablets powered by Android or Apple iOS programs.

(c) 2011 AFP