Review: Pandigital Novel is an inexpensive multimedia device option

Review: Pandigital Novel is an inexpensive multimedia device option: From Overdrive's Blog: "
Here’s a new term to add to your ever growing tech-related vocabulary: ‘multimedia device’.

The Pandigital Novel is not just an eBook Reader. It is, in fact, a multimedia device allowing access to Facebook, email, games, photos, and eBooks (let’s not forget the reason I’m reviewing this device).

You’re probably more familiar with Pandigital from the popular digital photo frames they manufacture and distribute. Pandigital took a step into the competitive market of eBook reading devices and designed the Novel.

Here are some of the specs:

• 7” Color touch screen (600×800 pixels)
• Android operating system
• Weight: 19 oz
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Compatible with Adobe EPUB, PDF (other formats listed here)

*Special Note: You need to complete a firmware update before using the Novel with OverDrive-supplied eBooks.

The interface is easy enough to figure out without reading the manual. However, there is one slightly complicated part: purchased eBooks and library borrowed materials are separated. Purchased eBooks can be found in the ‘main library’ on the device. eBooks checked out from an OverDrive-powered website are stored under a special Adobe eBooks option in the bottom pop up tab. Once you find your library eBooks, you need to check one and select ‘view’ to open. Although the Novel has Wi-Fi, you still have to download your library eBooks to a computer and transfer them using Adobe Digital Editions.

The touch screen takes some getting used to and isn’t very responsive to the tip of a finger. I found myself using a pen (not the business end) to scroll through menu options and pages of an eBook. A stylus would be a better option. One cool screen capability is to adjust the screen from the typical white background with black text to ‘night time’ mode which has a black background and white text. It’s very easy on the eyes while reading in bed.

It’s convenient to pick up the Novel online or while you are out doing your holiday shopping. I’ve spotted it at Bed Bath & Beyond, Kohl’s, Macy’s, and many other retailers. (This probably goes without saying, but retailers will depend on your area).

The Novel runs anywhere from $199.99 on their website to $169 in a store. If you are looking for a cheap iPad replacement though, you will find yourself wishing you had coughed up a few hundred dollars more. However if you are interested in reading eBooks and also having the ability to use other multimedia functions, it’s not a bad choice.

Megan Greer is a partner services associate for OverDrive.

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