[shiven]

Competition is good but I kind of prefer genuine competition.

Except in the industries and product areas where IP is being used for land-grabs, rent-collection, little-to-none innovation and roadblocking any and all competition. In those cases (as E-Ink), I am glad there are still places in this world where people can continue to push the envelope and innovate to create better products for our species. IP be damned.

[userbinator]

There are apparently already a bunch of small companies in China making EPDs (electrophoretic display, the "generic name" and associated components; E-Ink is just one company/trademark) so the end of the monopoly may be near, and prices may drop enough to make them as commonly available as LCDs.

[xeemzorz]

I wouldn't count on it. There are still many manufacturing difficulties to overcome before making large format electrophoretics cheaper.

[wuschel]

Interesting. Could you perhaps elaborate further, or point towards any sources re manufacturering difficulties?