MediaVidea

The Espresso: Media innovation of 2006

I am sorry, Video and social networks have been trumped by a machine that, in future can change the face of publishing around the world.

The New York Public Library will begin using a book printing and vending machine, called the Espresso. The Espresso costs $50,000. Up to 25 libraries and bookstores in the United States will begin using it in 2007.

The Espresso can print books upto 550 pages and it costs a penny per page to produce.

I foresee a time when $10000 and below machines are produced by Chinese manufacturers and students and booklovers in developing nations, burdened by the prohitive cost of books and textbooks.

I am sure they will bring the printing costs brought lower and lower until versions of Espresso-type machines are installed in college bookstores and corner newsstands, alongwith color versions.

Print on Demand is not a new technology. Online ventures such as Lulu and Cafepress also offer a wide range of print-on-demand services.

I chose the Espresso because of the low price barrier and increased public adoption. The only thing left for me to see: how long before a similar machine lands on Indian shores. Small publishers will benefit immensely.

posted by Pramit Singh @ 10:10 PM