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

The Traveling Library...
I have had my Kindle for a little over 4 months now and absolutely love it. I enjoy getting my news papers every morning (and keeping the historical copies without having to throw them away in the trash). The ability to read anywhere and have enough books to analytically explore a subject is awesome. I travel a bit and the Kindle has made it easier for me to actually read. Besides the free wireless, wikipedia searches, great responses from the NowNow team (I've asked them many questions from why the sky is blue to who solved Fermat's Last Theorem and they have been superb) and wirelessly updated blogs the Kindle would deserve 5 stars alone for the increased reading time.

I look forward to a software update that will hopefully add the ability to email links to articles from the papers, quotes (with references) from books/magainzes and the ability to classify PDF's/Word Documents you send yourself as something other than just a book.

If you enjoying reading and have always wished you could carry more books with you than is humanly possible then you should check the Kindle out. If you travel frequently, then it is a must.

Cost is too high!
A friend had one & I think its great but the cost is just way to high. Hopefully the next model will be alot & I mean alot cheaper.

Excellent first-generation device for avid readers
There is plenty that could be improved with the physical characteristics of this device, but if you like/love to read and then Kindle is unquestionably a life-changer (excuse the cliche). The ability to conveniently carry multiple books, automatically receive subscriptions with no technical fuss whatsoever, location-marking in each book/periodical, and easy dictionary/Wikipedia look-up of words and concepts allows for a systematic, enjoyable reading experience at any time/location. This device is a real cure for people who's available time to read is fragmented across commutes, work downtime, etc.

Lot's of room for improvement, mainly in physical characteristics: the leather case keeps a flimsy grip on the device, the navigation buttons are awkward and easily pressed inadvertently. The screen is too grey and not white enough for my tastes. A backlight would be great. However, in many ways Kindling is superior to ordinary reading: better in strong light, easier to hold, no ink smudges, much easier to read large-format periodicals in a crowded environment. The technology sits in the background: no fussing with connections, related error messages, upgrades, updates, formats, compatibility, ... Battery life is excellent (2 days with the wireless on).

If you're not an avid reader, I believe you'll find the device is (over)priced to capture "early adopters" not the general public (which tends to look for <$200 devices -- see iPhones, DVD players, digicams). Don't forget there are no wireless charges.