Photos: Technology Showcase at IDF

Rattlesnake shake

Just like the snake after which it's modelled, this prototype notebook can shed its skin. Unlike your average serpent, though, this detachable wrap contains an electronic ink screen and ancillary electronics, so you can download an electronic book and read it with the main machine turned firmly off. The wrap is kept in place by magnetic latches and has a docking port; the idea is that you can re-skin your system as fashion dictates, or move your favourite active cover from computer to computer. No answer as yet to the elemental question: why are e-ink e-books always demonstrated with a selection from Sherlock Holmes?

Photo credit: Rupert Goodwins