Amazon launches smaller, lighter Kindle

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Posted on 29 Jul 2010 at 12:06

Amazon has refreshed its Kindle eReader offerings, dispensing with the Kindle 2 and replacing it with a smaller, lighter version - along with an iPad-style choice of connectivity options.

With the Kindle 2 listed as "sold out" on Amazon's US site, it appears that the company is serious about pushing people towards the new devices - which is interesting, as they're not actually due to launch until the 27th of August.

When they finally do become available - although if you're impatient, both models are available for pre-order now - buyers will be treated to an eReader that is both 21 percent smaller and 15 percent lighter than its predecessor while retaining the same 6in display. The Kindle 3 will also be available as a traditional white version or a new graphite edition.

The new Kindle hasn't just had a cosmetic overhaul, either: Amazon claims that this latest model features an e-ink display which has around 50 percent better contrast than any other eReader on the market - including the Kindle 2 it replaces. The company has also doubled the internal storage space on the device.

This third generation of mainstream Kindle also comes with a little brother: taking a leaf from Apple's iPad strategy, Amazon will be launching a version which dispenses with the integrated 3G mobile broadband in favour of pure Wi-Fi connectivity - resulting in a major drop in price.

Amazon has stated that both versions will launch "in over 140 countries" towards the end of August, with UK customers able to pre-order the devices directly from Amazon for £149 for the 3G-enabled edition or £109 for the Wi-Fi only model.

Author: Gareth Halfacree

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