Electronic display

Scientists in the us have developed an ultra-thin electronic display that could well transform into an e-newspaper. The black and white display is constructed from steel foil and is less than 0.3 millimetres thick. It can be viewed from most angles and can be even be bent to a wide angle. The display can also be rolled into a cylinder just four millimetres wide.

The gadget has been put together by a team led by Yu Chen of the us-based E Ink Corporation. Since it can only be refreshed in one-fourth of a second, it is too slow for video images, which require updates within 0.015 of a second. But the display's refresh time makes it suitable for reading. The makers plan to use it in "wearable computer screens, electronic newspapers and smart identity cards.' But they admit that it will take at least two years for the technology to reach consumers.