Worldreader.org
© 2012 Worldreader
You don't need a fancy screen to read a classic novel, that's because text can be compressed and stored in the cloud. Then, it can be delivered to even the most remote village, providing there is a cell tower within range. But the ideas that are transmitted from author to reader could have a lasting effect, at least if things go as planned for the non-profit Worldreader (www.worldreader.org). Last month they announced a relationship with the Australian company, BiNu Pty Ltd (www.binu.com) to convert low-end feature phones into smart phones. Once installed, the phones can also be used for Facebook, Google, local news and Twitter, providing there is a cell tower within range, and, of course, some electricity. The end result is profound -- an unlimited supply of books, formatted for small screen delivery. The Worldreader Foundation, originally started using Amazon Kindles, understandable considering the founder, David Risher, is a former Amazon.com executive. The BiNu software is free to download, but charges on a per-use basis for such services as SMS messages. I recently met with Elizabeth Wood, Worldreader's Director of Digital Publishing, while at a conference in Italy, who shows how it works http://youtu.be/X7iM5Yke7VY. See the press release at http://bit.ly/zKOLj3.
feature phone
Teaches: reading, culture, literature