"We have pioneered this premium end of the market," Tamblyn tells us. But ebook readers are different to smartphone buyers they are, according to Kobo, older and genuinely passionate about reading as a result they are happy to part with more cash in return for a product of perceived higher value. The Aura One's £190 price tag is likely to put off casual readers looking to buy their first ebook - especially when you can buy an entry-level Amazon Kindle for £60.
Using a process called HZO, the interior of the Kobo are coated in a waterproof chemical, meaning there is no need to cover the USB port with an unsightly flap or plug. Tamblyn says a sleep researcher confirmed this is "the optimal way to read at night, it's better than using a bedside lamp."Īs ebooks are often read on the beach or by a swimming pool, the Aura One is waterproof a rating of IPX8 means it can survive up to an hour in two metres of water, although the screen does not respond to touch when submerged.
"This led us to completely re-engineer the front lighting of our screen to make Comfort Light Pro."Ĭolour temperature produced by the Aura One changes throughout the day, from crisp white in the daytime to orange and then red in the evening. "People were concerned about devices making it harder for them to get to sleep, or affecting the quality of their sleep." Tamblyn told IBTimes UK.
According to Kobo chief executive Michael Tamblyn, the Aura One's screen light is a healthier way to read than using a bedside lamp.