The DC-1 is the first e-reader model from Daylight Computer to use a black-and-white screen, capable of simulating paper printing, but with a different approach to electronic ink.
First of all, the DC-1 is available for pre-order on the company's website for a rather hefty price: $729. It will be delivered to the first buyers during November 2024.
Daylight Computer features
The DC-1 is first and foremost a touchscreen tablet with a 10.5” black-and-white display.
In terms of functionality, it can be used to consult Internet content - including video - but above all to read and work.
It uses a proprietary operating system based on Android 13 called Sol:OS. This system is presented as an anti-distraction software that enables its user to concentrate on the essentials, with a simple interface accessible to all.
It also appears to be possible to install third-party applications, such as reading apps from Kobo or Kindle (to name but a few).
The main functionalities revolve around reading (with, it seems, very good PDF support) and productivity, since a stylus is supplied with the DC-1.
A brand new display
Next, it's important to talk about the screen used in this Daylight Computer, since it's its main selling point.
The screen is black and white and called “Live Paper”, with a diagonal of 10.5 inches. Its resolution is correct (without being exceptional) at 1600 x 1200 pixels (190 dpi).
The technology is based on RLCD (reflective LCD screen), but with modifications for better light reflection (for reading in the sun), better contrast and - above all - very fast display at 60 frames per second (60fps).
The speed of the display can make all the difference for people who read a lot of PDFs on which it's necessary to zoom in to enlarge certain portions of the documents.
Its diagonal may also be perfectly suited to heavy manga consumers, and the presence of a stylus should enable it to be used with the main productivity software in the Android ecosystem.
Daylight Computer technical specifications
Here are the technical specifications for this new machine:
- 10.5-inch Live Paper screen, black and white, 1600 x 1200 pixels (190 dpi)
- Touch screen
- Wacom stylus (passive EMR type)
- Illumination with blue-light filter
- MediaTek Helio G99 processor
- 8000 mAh battery
- 128 GB storage
- 8 GB RAM memory
- Wifi
- Bluetooth 5.0
- USB-C
- micro-SD expansion
- Weight: 550 grams
- Speakers and microphone
- System based on Android 13
My premature opinion before the first reviews
This device has been in development for several years, and the first reviewers of the beta versions have already expressed their opinions on the subject, all indicating their satisfaction with the product.
Of course, we'll have to wait until it goes on the market - at the end of 2024 - to have a definitive opinion.
It's worth noting that the price of this e-reader is mainly aimed at professionals or very heavy readers (it will cost more than $700 at launch). It's a far cry from most e-readers, which can be found everywhere for under $200.
I'm quite enthusiastic, as the images I've seen suggest a good display and perfect fluidity - just like on an iPad.
We'll have to check, however, that the display doesn't tire the eyes too much after prolonged use.
Here's an official presentation video:
Official website: https://daylightcomputer.com/
