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
problems, problems, problems Have had three of these to date. My third one just died. I treat them with care. On two, the screen has gone out; one the hard drive died. I am at a year and 4 months. Since my original kindle was ordered over a year ago, I just had to pay $190 for a replacement. I have no faith this will ever be a durable device.
Amazing Gadget My Children got me this expensive little toy for Father's day - Wow. If I had known how much I would like it I would have bought one long ago. When I go on a trip, I used to load down my brief case with books. Now I just take all my books in feather light Kindle, and if I run out of books on the trip I just order up another one - at a much lower price than a book store - and it is there immediately. Lately when people give me a book, I say thank you, put the book on the shelf, and order it up on the Kindle. In other words I am impressed, a daily user, and so far completely happy with this gadget.
Kindle 1 i a pretty awesome gadget@ I bought a Kindle 1 off ebay about a month ago after buying and returning a Sony Reader 700. I was leary about it after reading some of the bad reviews the product got. However, you cannot please everyone and some of the issues people complained about are no issue at all for me.
I can see how the page turning buttons can be a problem, however, I am a petite person and have small hands. I can hold the Kindle comfortably and turn the page without any issues. Also, the black you see before the page turns is nothing. Who cares! It changes pages so quick I cannot believe that someone would actually complain about the black screen that shows up before the page changes.
Today was the first day I actually paid for a book and it was $1.99. Yes... I would like to read some of the new releases, but I do not read all that often so having the free books works fine for me. If John Grisham comes out with a new book on Kindle, I will get it..... as long as it is $1.99. I would like Dick Morris's new book, but they want $14.84. If I wait long enough, I can get the hardcover at the Goodwill for $2.50.
I was able to get the Twilight series of books for free. I am sure I cannot reveal how, but I did and there are ways to get books that are not in Kindle format, formatted for the Kindle.
I took my Kindle with me on vacation. Could you imagine having to carry an array of books with you? This gadget is awesome. I am not sure I will even upgrade to the Kindle 2 or the DX. The Kindle 1 is great!
Now: with iPhone and iTouch! I've had the kindle 1 for a year or more...and I'm rarely without it! My one acclimitzation problem was LEAVING it somewhere!! It is so nicely portable and compact that ocassionally, i'd forget and leave it somewhere!!! AAARRRGH!!! But now...with the free application from Apple, I can put my reading in my pocket via my iTouch! The two work together very well, provided you let the Kindle's wireless function operate, and you are able to us a wireless network with your iTouch/iPhone.
AND...the i device's backlight gives a VERY bright display AND the i device allows you to use black, white, or sepia print!!
I was not tempted to get the newer kindle: no SD card, case does not come with it, no ability to change your own battery.
Major works are not available. I own a kindle since the beginning of June...My joy died a few days later,when I found out that most books I would like to download are not available for kindle. For instance: CAtch 22 by Heller... The Stranger by Camus.. The Magic Mountain by Thomas Mann.... and many, many others...