Hanwang Technology will launch a color e-book reader using an EPD panel from E Ink Holdings (EIH) at the end of the first quarter of 2011, and will start e-book reader trails in junior high schools in Shanghai in September 2011, according to Liu Ying-jian, chairman of Hanwang.

Liu indicated that currently the commercial and education markets are the two main markets for color e-book readers.

Using color e-book readers in offices can help to reduce the usage of paper, with Japan-based corporations showing strong demand. Hanwang will actively develop the market in Japan, Liu noted.

Regarding the trails of color e-book readers in junior high schools in Shanghai, Liu added that the Shanghai city government has a clear five-year schedule to adopt e-book readers in schools, making it the best place to start the trials.