Will Tablets replace Textbooks?

Tablet startups bet on digital classroom.

 If Adrian Hartog has his way, college kids will be sporting tablet computers instead of backpacks loaded down with heavy textbooks. The CEO of educational tablet maker mySpark Technologies (mysparktech.com) is among a growing number of entrepreneurs attempting to change the way students study, share and do homework.
"Everybody is learning how to use the digital form," said Hartog, a former executive with graphic chipmakers AMD (AMD.N) and ATI. "We're really trying to provide a comprehensive solution for students."
MySpark plans to market two versions of its tablet, based on the Android operating platform, priced between $200 to $350 and due to be released this spring, Hartog said. Aimed at the college market, the 10-inch devices will let students buy digital textbooks, sync school calendars, collaborate via instant messaging and run Android apps.
Using a special stylus, they can take notes or annotate text; there's even cloud-based backup in case the device is lost. Hartog is betting the device - still in beta testing - will push students to stretch beyond traditional textbooks toward interactive material such as online demonstration videos and Web-based coursework.
"People will get access to content they never would have before," said Hartog, whose company is initially targeting North America and India.
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By Deborah L. Cohen

CHICAGO | Wed Feb 16, 2011 11:25am EST

CHICAGO (Reuters)