Product Description

Introducing Kindle™ Three years ago, we set out to design and build an entirely new class of device—a convenient, portable reading device with the ability to wirelessly download books, blogs, magazines, and newspapers. The result is Amazon Kindle. We designed Kindle to provide an exceptional reading experience. Thanks to electronic paper, a revolutionary new display technology, you’ll find reading Kindle’s screen is as sharp and natural as reading ink on paper—and nothing like the strain and glare of a computer screen. Kindle is also easy on the fingertips. It never becomes hot, and is designed for ambidextrous use so both “lefties” and “righties” can read comfortably at any angle for long periods of time. We wanted Kindle to be completely mobile and simple to use for everyone, so we made it wireless. No PC and no syncing needed. Using the same 3G network as advanced cell phones, we deliver your content using our own wireless delivery system, Amazon Whispernet. Unlike WiFi, you’ll never need to locate a hotspot. There are no confusing service plans, yearly contracts, or monthly wireless bills—we take care of the hassles so you can just read. With Whispernet, you can be anywhere, think of a book, and get it in one minute. Similarly, your content automatically comes to you, wherever you are. Newspaper subscriptions are delivered wirelessly each morning. Most magazines arrive before they hit newsstands. Haven’t read the book for tomorrow night’s book club? Get it in a minute. Finished your book in the airport? Download the sequel while you board the plane. Whether you’re in the mood for something serious or hilarious, lighthearted or studious, Kindle delivers your spontaneous reading choices on demand. We’re very proud to introduce Kindle and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do. - The Amazon Kindle Team

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1 in Amazon Devices
• Color: Bisque
• Brand: Amazon
• Dimensions: .70" h x 5.30" w x 7.50" l, .65 pounds

Features

• Revolutionary electronic-paper display provides a sharp, high-resolution screen that looks and reads like real paper.
• Simple to use: no computer, no cables, no syncing.
• Wireless connectivity enables you to find, buy, and read instantly—whether you’re in the back of a taxi, at the airport, or in bed.
• Shop the Kindle Store directly from your Kindle.
• Buy a book and it is auto-delivered wirelessly in less than one minute.

Customer Reviews

I love books, but I also love my Kindle!
I travel a lot and with each trip, I tend to pack 4 or 5 books (this doesn't include the books I buy while I am on vacation). :) I love books and I read a lot. I also hate reading online, so I am not one who would willingly swap a paperback for a computer book.

I got the Kindle as a gift, and I have had it for about a week. I was a bit apprehensive when I saw the box, but after 5 minutes of use I was sold. I absolutely LOVE it! It takes a bit of getting used to (it is tricky at first to hold it without turning pages), but it only takes a bit of use before you are reading without accidentally skipping three pages ahead. The screen uncannily looks like a printed page and there is no glare or back lighting like a computer monitor. The text is also very clear and the images are fixed and do not waver. My eyes also do not get fatigued with reading and I love reading on the kindle as much as out of a paperback. It will be great for travel since I can take tons of books and not lose any room in my suitcase.

It is also very user friendly and super easy to use. I was able to navigate around the Kindle without reading directions first. It is very user friendly and designed well. After fiddling about, I read the manual. It is clear and easy to follow.

As with any first generation product, there are a few flaws. The next page and back buttons are easily hit accidentally. The most annoying thing for me was that the cover does not hold the Kindle in place securely (luckily, this is easily fixed with a couple of pieces of Velcro).

In the reviews I read, I noticed that a lot of people are pretty tough on Amazon for the number of books that are available as well as the design. All I have to say is that this is the first version of this product. As a result, the number of books available is small. Don't you all remember the music choices available when the first iPod came out? As digital music players have increased in popularity, the availability and variety of mp3 downloads has also increased. The same will be true with books for the Kindle. The variety available now is amazing and I imagine it will continue to improve dramatically as weeks and months pass. The design will also improve with later models. My first mp3 player was horrible and nowhere near my video iPod. The same goes for my first cell phone. The Kindle will also only get better with time. Only through use will any minor design flaws be altered and improved.

Overall, the Kindle is an amazing gadget! It hardly weighs anything, the screen is easy to read, and I can download bestsellers in about a minute. Kindle will never replace true paper books for me, but it will be great for trips abroad and traveling for work. I would highly recommend it to everyone I know. If mine got run over by a bus tomorrow, I would immediately log onto Amazon and order a new one. It is fun and useful, and I think it is worth every penny!

Give Kindle a try--I think you will love it!

Good but not a library
I liked the easy download and purchasing of books, however I did not like the limited amount of technical manuals and difficulty in getting non kindle books into the device. The pdf conversion and input method does not produce the same quality of document that can be purchased.

Incredible Freedom for the Handicapped
I bought a Kindle for my mom who has ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) and is no longer able to hold a book. I cannot say enough about the joy and independence this has brought back to her! She has missed reading so much, and the ability to 'disappear' into a book and actually turn the page herself has been beyond liberating. Bravo Kindle!