Pen is a stroke of genius

Hanvon sells 60,000 units a month and is scheduled to surpass the Kindle in sales sometime this year.

Hanvon has recently developed new models that offer wireless connectivity and they will come out later this year, such as the WIFI-equipped N618 and the 3G-ready T618.

Meanwhile, its wide range of products, from 1,300-yuan ($190) student models to the 3,400-yuan luxury version, are rich in functions serving the language market. Some of the models have so many books installed that, if you deduct the cost of paper editions, the gadget is virtually free.