The Wenzhou Newspaper Group of southeastern China's Zhejiang Province launched the first paid subscriptions for the Internet editions of their newspapers.

The group will issue its four newspapers, Wenzhou Dushi Bao, Wenzhou Daily, Wenzhou Evening News and Wenzhou Business, through the Internet.

The digital edition of these four newspapers have the same content as the print editions with pictures and words. The digital editions also have an audio device that reads the news aloud to readers, turning readers into listeners.

The digital edition of these four newspapers will cost subscribers 380 yuan a year, half the price of the printed editions.

A person responsible for the newspaper group said the digital edition respects people's reading customs and is consistent with the original newspaper. However, the reading function and images will enhance the effects.

(CRI April 9, 2007)