Just in time for the back-to-school season, Sony has released two new versions of their Reader eBook device into stores. Unfortunately neither are the Reader Daily Edition which launched last year in the US and includes a taller screen for periodicals and both Wi-Fi and 3G wireless access. Instead Sony Canada has introduced updated versions of the Reader Pocket Edition and Reader Touch.

Both models now include touchscreens with new optical technology that Sony says is specifically developed for eBook devices and promises reading clarity. The new E-Ink screens now include enhanced contrast with 16-level greyscale and both editions include ten translation dictionaries for French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Dutch as well as easy reference with built-in copies of the New Oxford American and Oxford Dictionary of English eDictionaries. New PDF features include a zoom, personal screensaver, and documents designed for standard-sized paper now display easier on the Reader screen with support for multiple page creation documents. 

The new Reader Pocket includes a 5" screen, 2GB of memory (1,200 books), touchscreen, and is available in silver or pink for $200.

The new Reader Touch includes a 6" screen, 2GB of memory (1,200 books), touchscreen, playback for MP3 and AAC files, and comes in black, silver, or red for $250.