Amazon Kindle 2 e-book Reader Now Available

Amazon Kindle 2 e-book Reader Now Available

Techtree News Staff, Feb 10, 2009 1757 hrs IST

Pre-bookings on

Amazon, better known as an online book retailer, has released its latest generation of Kindle electronic-book reader - Kindle 2: Amazon's latest wireless reading device.

Rumors about the next generation Kindle began to float on the web last year when pictures claiming to show a new model that sports a thinner, more attractive design surfaced. News about its February release surfaced only last month.

Here are Kindle 2's key features:

It measures just over 1/3 of an inch, as thin as most magazines and weighs 10.2 ounces.
The wireless Kindle 2 allows its 3G capabilities to let users download books anytime, anywhere; no monthly fees, service plans, or hunting for Wi-Fi hotspots. Of course, this does not apply for across the world.
Compared to the original Kindle, the new one boasts of 25 percent longer battery life which makes it capable read for days without recharging, says the company.
It features a new Text-to-Speech feature that can read out text for the user.
It offers more storage and faster page flips.

The Kindle 2 carries the same price tag as its predecessor -- $359 (Rs. 17, 401). It will be released on Feb. 24; however enthusiasts can pre-book it right away. And yes, you can also opt for getting your Kindle gift-wrapped.

If you're in India and this deal got you overjoyed, hold that thought for a while. It is unlikely that Kindle 2 would be available at a store near you anytime soon.