While predicting the future of reading and learning is impossible, data analysis, technological advancements, and statistics can help product developers assess a product or service’s potential success or failure. Brands like Kindle use this information to improve their existing products and refer to them when creating new ones. A prime example of this is E-Ink display technology. E-Ink offers comfort and reduces eye strain; however, it falls short in delivering high-definition graphic output.
How important are graphics for reading? The answer largely depends on the audience being asked and what their needs are. Textbooks, art books, informational manuals, and user guides need visual displays to be effective. It must be a consideration.
The views of Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y, or Millennials will not dictate the future of reading. Instead, this responsibility lies with the Alpha and Beta generations, who have been exposed to digital products since early childhood. This younger generation is less inclined to use paper and prefers to quickly consume shorter, graphic-rich content.
Will paper books even be a consideration twenty or thirty years from now? It seems highly unlikely. As I mentioned in a previous post, they may become more of a collector’s item by then.
It is not just the technology and convenience of digital reading behind the trend; there is a global movement towards using more sustainable products. But, it is debatable: some people think paper is far less damaging to the planet than electronic devices requiring batteries and constant upgrades. Every generation must decide what they believe is the best way to proceed. However, the answer to this question will have a profound effect on reading and learning in the future. Will there be an actual paperless society? If so, is the current digital space sufficient? Or will changes need to be made?
When I asked my twelve-year-old nephew what he thought, he replied, “I have never read books, watched a DVD, or been to a library. Why would I when I can stream anything I want?”
We are not quite at the point where full digital and streaming will be at the forefront of all content, but the trends suggest we are moving in that direction. Sol introduced wearable e-readers with two E-Ink screens; Generative AI is gaining traction, and virtual reality books and games have increased in popularity, thus proving that digital reading is on the rise and brands are trying to find new and exciting ways to engage their clientele.
The software appears ready and available for use, but is the current hardware prepared for the future? Are small mobile devices the only viable option, and are they the best choice? What about future classroom learning? Is streaming content remotely a better alternative?
For big brands to remain competitive, they must create sustainable products that offer longer battery life and include clear, graphic-rich text solutions that do not cause eye strain. When reviewing e-readers on this site, we often find features in specific devices that we feel should be implemented in others. However, most people are unwilling to purchase three or four devices to access their desired features.
There comes a point when the market becomes saturated with too many choices, leading some brands to fade away while allowing those collaborating to create more universal and cooperative solutions to thrive. We are at this juncture, and I am excited to see what develops next.
I envision a future where books come to life with holographic images, students can collaborate on projects in real-time from the safety of their homes, and workers have instant access to resource materials simply by asking for them. This would create a truly immersive reading experience.
Writing has always been her passion and a voice for those who cannot speak. She considers herself fortunate to write every day and says her mantra is, “I drink coffee, write, and I know about people and technology.” Her writing is diverse and can be found online on websites like LifeHack, You Have a Calling, Medium, TechCrunch and, She Knows.
