Sharp to demo an e-book at IFA 2010

PLAY ALPHAGRAM if you dare with Sharp's XMDF e-book reader that will be demonstrated at its European launch at IFA in Berlin.

With 5.5-inch and 10.8-inch versions the reader can also play audio and video as well as show words and pictures. The multimedia reader is referred to as an Next Generation XMDF device because it is an advance on the 2001 original XMDF that was sold for Japanese novels and manga comics. Later this year Sharp will launch a digital platform to promote e-book distribution.

Next Generation XMDF is described by Sharp as a "core technology". As well as video, audio pictures and words the next-generation XMDF allows publishers to set the layout of a downloaded magazine automatically. The reader was unveiled in July at a Japanese press conference.

At IFA, Sharp will launch for the second time its 3D version of its Quattron flatscreen television, which previously has only been High Definition capable. Details of the 3D version's availability in the UK and its other technical features will be announced at the company's 2 September 2pm BST IFA press conference.

At the press conference Sharp will also re-announce its ultrathin 60-inch bezel multi-display. The company describes it as a "huge, seamless, LCD panel display constructed especially for IFA". At IFA Sharp will demo its smartphone products too.

And its not really The INQUIRER's bag but Sharp will showcase its solar technology, too. Let's hope its not cloudy. µ