A new, inexpensive digital book reader based on 8-bit computing technology promises to bring educational resources to students in developing countries. The US $20 Humane Reader, created by computer consultant Braddock Gaskill, uses two 8-bit microcontrollers in a Secure Digital (SD) reading device that can store 5,000 books plus an offline, text version of Wikipedia in various languages. It doesn’t need an Internet connection to operate, but instead uses a television as the display. The reading device can be used for search with or without a keyboard. Gaskill told Wired the concept is simple: provide students with a digital encyclopedia. He is actively seeking partners to produce and distribute the device. (Wired)(Humane Informatics)