Amazon’s Entry-Level Kindle Doubles Memory, Adopts Thinner And Lighter Design
Amazon’s entry-level e-reader is getting a makeover; its first in two years. The first thing you’ll notice is that this marks the return of a white color option for the Kindle lineup in six years. Of course, if you prefer the staid black, you can still go that route as well.
Memory has been doubled, which should help to improve the overall performance of the 5.7-ounce e-reader. The new Kindle is also both thinner and lighter than its predecessor, and the edges have been rounded out to make the e-reader easier to grip during extended reading sessions.
This is also the first Kindle to incorporate Bluetooth audio support, which provides better accessibility options (including use of the VoiceView screen reader). And as always, the Kindle will last weeks on a charge which means that charging will be an afterthought for most users.
With that being said, most of the other specs remain the same as the previous generation model. That means you’ll receive a 6-inch 167 ppi glare-free, touch screen display. And thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi, you can also have free access to AT&T hotspots across the country.
“Tens of millions of readers around the world have Kindle e-readers and today, we’re excited to make our most affordable Kindle even better, while keeping the same breakthrough price point,” said Arthur van Rest, who serves as General Manager for Amazon’s Kindle division. “With a thinner and lighter design, twice the memory, and all the features customers love about Kindle, it has never been a better time to be a reader.”
The all-new Kindle is priced at the same $79.99 as its predecessor, but it won’t begin shipping until July 7th.
