Humanware has announced a new family of Victor Reader models to replace their line of CD-based book players. The Stratus essentially takes many of the features found in the Stream and introduces them to the CD versions. In addition, all models of the Stratus play data DVDs as well as CDs. Several models are planned, with the Stratus M including SD storage and Acapela text-to-speech and the Stratus H including wi-fi and 3G data connections. A Stratus I is also listed but not described. In addition, both simple layouts with arrow keys and a numeric keypad layout are available for each model. No pricing or release date information has been announced.
Source: Go to sourceCategory: Portable Devices
Interesting, though off hand, I can't think what use 3g support would be in a cd-based device. CDs, or any other optical media for that matter, can't be written to randomly in the same way magnetic or flash media can. They'd have to put the Wifi/3G connectivity on a device that either has some internal memory or can take flash media such as an SD card, since you'd need somewhere to store the downloaded data.
roosterloop Thursday, 05-May-2011 3:11 PM ET:
Sounds pretty sweet, though, in my opinion a little past it's time. I think Humanware is redeming themselves by adding USB and SD options, and with that being said, making this unit pretty sweet. I feel if they would offer ripping options of Audio CD to the alternitive media they may really grab more buyers. The ability of reading Data DVD's is very nice, though reading the audio track from comercial video DVD's would be something unique and, from my research a one of a kind. In regards to wireless technology, in this day and age, I would think this should be offered.
Mello Thursday, 05-May-2011 9:34 PM ET:
Thanks Humanware, just what I always wanted! another craptastic product.
DPinWI Wednesday, 11-May-2011 08:44 AM ET:
I wonder if companies like Humanware will cling to the dedicated hardware model, or transition into software for mainstream devices.
DPinWI Wednesday, 11-May-2011 08:44 AM ET:
I wonder if companies like Humanware will cling to the dedicated hardware model, or transition into software for mainstream devices.
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J.J. Meddaugh is an experienced technology writer and computer enthusiast. He is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a major in telecommunications management and a minor in business. When not writing for Blind Bargains, he enjoys travel, playing the keyboard, and meeting new people.
