The eReader market is getting increasingly crowded, as Aluratek announces two new devices and Pandigital has plans for one of its own (not to mention the anticipated big announcement from Barnes & Noble). Peering down at the competition from its peak of supremacy is the Amazon Kindle, which will apparently still sell even if it’s full of marketing and advertisements.


Aluratek Announces Libre Air and Libre Touch
The Aluratek Libre line is getting a little bit bigger, with Aluratek announcing the new Air and Touch. Both of these eReaders will be able to hold books, MP3’s, and large selection of movie types, and be able to browse the web over Wi-Fi. They will both also come with 100 free eBooks.

The 5-inch Libre Air, which features an LCD “ePaper” screen and microSD card slot, is available for $119. The 7-inch Libre Touch costs $149. Both devices can currently be found in Aluratek’s online store.


Pandigital Explores Planet Tablet
Pandigital’s newest device seems to be walking that fine line between eReader and tablet that the Barnes & Noble NOOK has so successfully balanced upon. Pandigital recently submitted the Android-based Planet eReader to the FCC for review. While it’s rumored that the Planet will not have access to the Android Market, it will arrive with a host of preinstalled apps, and feature a collection of tablet-like hardware features, including front- and rear-facing cameras, HDMI output, and an onboard microphone.

The seven-inch Planet will feature Wi-Fi, an LCD screen, and have access to the Barnes & Noble digital bookstore. As of yet no word is available on pricing or availability.


Kindle with Special Offers is an Amazon Bestseller
Despite competition from the NOOK, eReader apps on most modern mobile devices, and the other Kindle versions, Kindle with Special Offers has shot up to the top of Amazon’s sales charts and currently sits at number one on Amazon’s list of bestselling products in electronics. Numbers two and three on the list are the Wi-Fi Kindle and Kindle 3G, respectively.

Kindle with Special Offers is similar to the Wi-Fi Kindle, except that it features advertisements on its screensaver and homepage. In exchange for tolerating these ads, customers receive a $25 discount, as the Kindle with special offers is only $114, while the normal Wi-Fi kindle is $139.

View the original article here