Amazon introduces its Kindle e-reader

21 Nov 2007 12:38

Chief executive Jeff Bezos on Monday unveiled the company's e-book reader, an electronic handheld device for reading material ranging from novels to newspapers

Amazon.com chief executive Jeff Bezos on Monday unveiled the company's e-book reader, the Kindle — the latest entry into the long unspectacular market for electronic handheld devices for reading material ranging from novels to newspapers.

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Amazon's new "Kindle Store" stocks more than 90,000 titles, "including 101 of 112 current New York Times Best Sellers and new releases, which are $9.99, unless marked otherwise", according to a release from the company.

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The wireless device does not require a PC for synchronisation, nor does a user need to install any software.

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The Kindle features a six-inch display based on technology from E Ink. It has a 600x800-pixel resolution with a four-level grey scale.

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At 10.3 ounces, or just more than a half a pound, the Kindle shouldn't be too taxing for strap-hanging commuters to hold with one hand.

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No, you can't use that pencil to fill in the crossword puzzle on-screen. But the skinny Kindle won't take up too much room in a briefcase.

Story URL: http://news.zdnet.co.uk/hardware/0,1000000091,39290973,00.htm