The new Kindle Touch: Whoa!

[ISiddiqui]

Holy crap, I'm drooling over this!

Gorgeous touch screen eInk reader for $149 with 3G and $99 for Wifi.

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/09/amazon-eventdsc1600sept-2011.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/09/amazon-eventdsc1601sept-2011.jpg

[jeff061]

And a strong price point on their color. I'm liking what they are doing, hopefully competitors follow suit.

[ISiddiqui]

You mean the Fire tablet (ie, the color)?

[DaddyTorgo]

Hey - they got the sub-$100 kindle out there! Hot shit! And touchscreen.

And a $79 Kindle too? Fuck me - that's practically in the region of "impulse technology buy" there.

Not super-excited about the "Kindle Fire" frankly - but I hope it sells enough that they release a 10.1-inch tablet with wifi+3G later on. That was the rumor - they're launching the fire first, and then the bigger one later on. I'd be more in the market for a higher-end one.

Nice aggressive price points though. Holy fuck.

[jeff061]

You mean the Fire tablet (ie, the color)?

Yeah, may pick it up to have something small when I travel to do simple stuff with that's not company controlled. Waiting on reviews.

[heybrad]

I'm sure I'm behind the times with this question... but is it significantly cheaper to buy books for a Kindle than it is to buy the physical book?

[ISiddiqui]

Usually... all books were $9.99 or less for a while and most books still are. However, when Apple tried to get into the ebooks business with iBooks, it allowed the publishers to be able to play that against Amazon, resulting in some publishers mandating $15 price points.

[DaddyTorgo]

Yeah - I saw at least one book I wanted recently (a new release) that was $14.99 for ebook and $14.82 for hardcover.

[Ksyrup]

Bill James' book on true crime is still $14.99. I was going to buy it for the ipod, but haven't so far. I kinda wished they were cheaper, on average (my wife has a kindle and the prices don't seem any different, but her frequency of purchase seems to go up...:rant: ).

[cschex]

Was waiting until Xmas to get my wife her own eReader, and she liked the touchscreen of the Nook even though I have a Kindle and all of my ebooks are through Amazon. This is now a no-brainer 1st day purchase for me

[ISiddiqui]

Was an example of where competition screwed over consumers.

[DanGarion]

Pretty impressive, but I think the Fire should have been packed with more memory, 8 GB just isn't enough in today's world. I'm assuming the Fire runs a Amazon version of Android so it will be rooted pretty quickly.

[wade moore]

Pretty impressive, but I think the Fire should have been packed with more memory, 8 GB just isn't enough in today's world. I'm assuming the Fire runs a Amazon version of Android so it will be rooted pretty quickly.

It isn't?

What do you need the HD space for with a device like this?

This is a cloud-enabled, low-cost tablet. I'd much rather a $200 device with 8 GB than a $350 device with 32, that's for sure.

[DaddyTorgo]

Pretty impressive, but I think the Fire should have been packed with more memory, 8 GB just isn't enough in today's world. I'm assuming the Fire runs a Amazon version of Android so it will be rooted pretty quickly.

But the fire is just the entry-level tabloid. And it's equipped with all of Amazon's CloudDrive stuff built right in. So the idea is two-fold:

1) More powerful (more memory) tablet next year
2) With CloudDrive and Amazon Music and everything, you don't need to actually store all that much stuff on your device. You store it in the cloud, and access it via WIFI (and yes - for me personally I don't like that as much unless the device also has 3G, because it requires pre-planning to some extent, but for an entry-level device it makes sense).

[wade moore]

So, this has me VERY interested. I too will await some reviews, maybe try to get some hands on - but this is very appealing to me.

[DaddyTorgo]

I guess it won't be sold thru retailers though right? So how are people going to get hands-on time?

Or will it be in retailers?

[wade moore]

I guess it won't be sold thru retailers though right? So how are people going to get hands-on time?

Or will it be in retailers?

I know the Kindle is currently sold at Target. Not sure about any other retailers.

[gstelmack]

I'm sure I'm behind the times with this question... but is it significantly cheaper to buy books for a Kindle than it is to buy the physical book?

Note that there are also plenty of Kindle-only books that are fairly cheap. $0.99 for some scifi books to get you into a series, and lots of $3-$4 books from non-established authors. Big publishers are definitely trying to screw everybody over, even though their costs are way down with eBooks, but the smaller guys are taking advantage. Poke around some and you might find some new authors to follow.

[DaddyTorgo]

I don't take credit for doing the math on this, but

You can now buy the entire Kindle lineup for less then a 32GB iPad. Wow.

[Rizon]

I'm sure I'm behind the times with this question... but is it significantly cheaper to buy books for a Kindle than it is to buy the physical book?

None of the books my wife and I were interested in were less. We pretty much use the Kindle now to play free games.

[cschex]

Re: the ebook price. For Kindle owners, accessing Kindle books via your public library launched in many areas this week. In my experience, the libraries have quite a few less books overall but newer bestsellers and popular books are well-represented on what's available through Kindle.

[stevew]

200 is the sweet spot for tablet pricing. I also heard that this device is very similar in construction to the BlackBerry Playbook.

[DanGarion]

It isn't?

What do you need the HD space for with a device like this?

This is a cloud-enabled, low-cost tablet. I'd much rather a $200 device with 8 GB than a $350 device with 32, that's for sure.
The could is great if I have 3G/4G access. But when it comes to movies, music things like that the could is useless without internet. All I did is read the info off of Amazon's site, I didn't see anything there about this being the "entry" tablet. So if that is the case great. But it should still have a SD card option or something to it... IMO.

[DaddyTorgo]

The could is great if I have 3G/4G access. But when it comes to movies, music things like that the could is useless without internet. All I did is read the info off of Amazon's site, I didn't see anything there about this being the "entry" tablet. So if that is the case great. But it should still have a SD card option or something to it... IMO.

It is the "entry" option - the kicked-up version of it won't be ready till 2012, so they decided to release this now in advance of the holidays to compete with the new Nook and all...

[Galaril]

i was going to hold off till xmas to buy a Kindle but just got a new Samsung Galaxy 4LGTE 10 inch tablet from my work and so was going to just go with the kindle app for android. I am curious what people who have used the android kindle app think about it overall. I know it won't have the novelty of the e-ink which for me along with less glare are the kindle devices most compelling features as well as these new low prices.

[DaddyTorgo]

i was going to hold off till xmas to buy a Kindle but just got a new Samsung Galaxy 4LGTE 10 inch tablet from my work and so was going to just go with the kindle app for android. I am curious what people who have used the android kindle app think about it overall. I know it won't have the novelty of the e-ink which for me along with less glare are the kindle devices most compelling features as well as these new low prices.

Grab one of the new $79 kindles. At that price it's not breaking the bank...

[Doug5984]

I'm liking what I'm seeing.

I'll probably get a fire when the 2nd generation comes around- I just picked up a HP touchpad when they were dirt cheap, so that'll hold me over for a few years.

[sabotai]

I'm sure I'm behind the times with this question... but is it significantly cheaper to buy books for a Kindle than it is to buy the physical book?

Depends on what you mean by "significantly". The vast majority of books I have wanted to buy have had a cheaper Kindle version, but it's usually by $1-$3. Some of the more expensive books can be much cheaper. But those small differences add up over time and I'd say that at this point, the money I saved by buying the Kindle versions have paid for my Kindle.

But then again, I read a lot. If it weren't for the occasional book I want that doesn't have a Kindle version, I would think that the UPS driver would conclude that I died or moved away.

The best way to tell is to just go through Amazon looking for all of the books you want or have bought recently and make note of the difference and add them up.

[Subby]

Excellent overview and analysis of the Fire:

Amazon's Kindle Fire Is Built To Blaze Through Amazon Purchases | Fast Company (http://www.fastcompany.com/1783474/amazons-kindle-fire-tablet-just-works-because-its-optimized-to-the-max)

Dangarion - the point is that this is not a full featured tablet. Anything but, to be honest. It's sole purpose is to consume content you purchase from Amazon.com.

[Young Drachma]

1024x600 resolution.

[jeff061]

Not sure if you are posting that as a positive or a negative. Id imagine that is plenty high enough for a screen that size.

[bob]

Re: the ebook price. For Kindle owners, accessing Kindle books via your public library launched in many areas this week. In my experience, the libraries have quite a few less books overall but newer bestsellers and popular books are well-represented on what's available through Kindle.

This has to be a YMMV situation then. My library had about 200 books total for Kindle, and most of them were crap.

[Super Ugly]

Big publishers are definitely trying to screw everybody over, even though their costs are way down with eBooks

Not looking to single you out, but that's not necessarily the case - not for the entire industry, anyway. E-books eliminate printing and distribution costs, yes, but the production costs (copy-editing, typesetting etc.) are still there. That's the most expensive part of the entire process, print or digital. In my part of the industry (I'm an editor for a large academic publisher) the revenue generated by an average print title is pretty crappy ... If I cut the prices of books to reflect what the public feels e-books are 'worth', I'd be out of a job pretty quickly and my authors would receive even less in the way of royalties.

That's academic publishing, but it's a similar story for the big-time houses too.

[Super Ugly]

Dola, before anybody points out mistakes in my spelling or grammar, I should point out that I'm an acquisitions editor, not a copy editor. :)

[DaddyTorgo]

Dola, before anybody points out mistakes in my spelling or grammar, I should point out that I'm an acquisitions editor, not a copy editor. :)

:lol:

[Scoobz0202]

I'm liking what I'm seeing in the Kindle reader area. I'll withhold judgement on the tablet until I see some videos of it, read hands-on impressions, etc.

I actually just placed my Kindle 3 on ebay and ordered the newer, non-keyboard edition with ads for 80 bucks. Figure I should get that out of my current kindle and I never use the keyboard anyways. The smaller and lighter weight are too enticing. I'll get a touch when that comes out.

[RainMaker]

When it comes to books, I find a lot of success buying them used on Amazon or Half.com. If it's not something that's been released in the last 6 months or year, you can usually get it in really good condition for $4-$5 plus shipping. Cheaper than the eBook version.

My gripe with the Kindle and books is you don't own it. If the Kindle goes under (I know it's unlikely) or another eBook comes out that just kills the Kindle, you have to hope there is an app on their to read your books.

Don't get me wrong, if the price comes down a bit more, I'd be interested. But buying physical books at under $10 is still cheaper and I can either give it away or re-sell it when I'm done.

[DaddyTorgo]

I'm liking what I'm seeing in the Kindle reader area. I'll withhold judgement on the tablet until I see some videos of it, read hands-on impressions, etc.

I actually just placed my Kindle 3 on ebay and ordered the newer, non-keyboard edition with ads for 80 bucks. Figure I should get that out of my current kindle and I never use the keyboard anyways. The smaller and lighter weight are too enticing. I'll get a touch when that comes out.

Talk to me about this Kindle 3 of yours...

[bob]

My biggest gripe with the Kindle - i would expect books that are now available as paperbacks for 7.99 to that price, not 9.99.

The thing i like best - being able to download the first chapter or so of any book. I've avoided buying a ton of books that I thought I would like by downloading the first chapter.

[Super Ugly]

The thing i like best - being able to download the first chapter or so of any book. I've avoided buying a ton of books that I thought I would like by downloading the first chapter.

I seriously need to use this feature. I recently bought Peter Gent's 'The Franchise' to keep me occupied on a business trip. I wish I'd tried a sample chapter first. The book is beyond awful.

[cougarfreak]

Talk to me about this Kindle 3 of yours...

I've had one for three years now, what's up?

[Scoobz0202]

Talk to me about this Kindle 3 of yours...

I read books on it. It's pretty cool ;)


I mean. Make me an offer. It's a year old, but it's left my house once. No visible marks that I can see. I'm not looking to be greedy, just not get ripped. I'd be reasonable with you if you didn't like it or felt like I was dishonest. I have my ebay as 7 days I think, but if on day 13 you said hey man, what the fuck, I wouldn't be that guy that said fuck off ;)

EDIT: Forgot to add. It does not have 3G access. WiFi only. (Never felt the need for 3g on a kindle)

[RainMaker]

The thread title also deserves this.

http://i.imgur.com/HWJLm.jpg

[ISiddiqui]

I approve!

And I have a Kindle 2 (I paid a lot for it too). So it is likely about time to upgrade. The eInk Pearl screen is enticing as well.

[molson]

When it comes to books, I find a lot of success buying them used on Amazon or Half.com. If it's not something that's been released in the last 6 months or year, you can usually get it in really good condition for $4-$5 plus shipping. Cheaper than the eBook version.

My gripe with the Kindle and books is you don't own it. If the Kindle goes under (I know it's unlikely) or another eBook comes out that just kills the Kindle, you have to hope there is an app on their to read your books.

Don't get me wrong, if the price comes down a bit more, I'd be interested. But buying physical books at under $10 is still cheaper and I can either give it away or re-sell it when I'm done.

Ya, the reason I haven't started with e-books yet is that it's just a great time to buy used paper books. If you've ever wanted to fill up your shelves, now's the time. And it's not like I travel with more than 1-2 books at a time, so a kindle really isn't that much a space saver.

[Scoobz0202]

Yea. I've said it before. I go back and forth with my kindle and physical books. I'll read a few on the kindle and then turn to my shelf that has 30+ books that I have yet to read that I had prior to the kindle. I also order the physical copy to any book I read on the kindle that I really enjoy. Yea, I am not saving any money.

Edit: That's not a knock on the Kindle, though. That's just my obsession with books. I still have my dream of having a room in a house that I can turn into a library. First step, acquire enough books.

[RainMaker]

Even if the ebooks start becoming cheaper, you still have to read a lot to make it worthwhile. I think your typical ebook is $2 cheaper than the regular book new. So you're still looking at having to buy 30-35 books to break even. And unless you're an avid reader, there will probably be a newer, better eReader by that time.

And while people tout convenience, I'm never reading more than one or two books at a time. It's not like I need a library of 100 books at my fingertips.

[Galaril]

Ya, the reason I haven't started with e-books yet is that it's just a great time to buy used paper books. If you've ever wanted to fill up your shelves, now's the time. And it's not like I travel with more than 1-2 books at a time, so a kindle really isn't that much a space saver.

Agreed the lasy year I have bought all my books off amazon for anywhere from $1-49 including shipping and in great or near new condition even some hardcovers. Only paid full price for the new George RR Martin book.So, probably am going to stay out of the ereader market until they all drop prices on books in a few years.

[Buccaneer]

It isn't?

What do you need the HD space for with a device like this?

This is a cloud-enabled, low-cost tablet. I'd much rather a $200 device with 8 GB than a $350 device with 32, that's for sure.

You mean one has to choose whether they are able to read/access or not, depending on location and coverage and other technological glitches? It sounds disadvantageous to having to plan ahead in order to read/listen/access and to hope that you are still able to do so once there. Listening to my complete music/audiobook collection depends only upon me remember to charge the batteries.

[ISiddiqui]

Yea. I've said it before. I go back and forth with my kindle and physical books. I'll read a few on the kindle and then turn to my shelf that has 30+ books that I have yet to read that I had prior to the kindle. I also order the physical copy to any book I read on the kindle that I really enjoy. Yea, I am not saving any money.

Edit: That's not a knock on the Kindle, though. That's just my obsession with books. I still have my dream of having a room in a house that I can turn into a library. First step, acquire enough books.

The funny thing is that the relationship between the Kindle and paper books have gone the way of High Definition programming to Standard Definition. Just as I can't really watch SD programming anymore, I can't read a paper book all that often. I have books that I started reading a year and a half ago, but I haven't made much of a dent, because 99% of my reading is on my Kindle.

It helps that I do most of my reading on the train, where the lighter, thinner Kindle is much more useful and the fact that I can immediately download a new book after I finish one is major plus.

[kcchief19]

It's also to Amazon's benefit, because this tightly managed UI really constrains you to only supping content directly from Amazon's pipelines, be it for music, video, apps or even web browsing (which happens partly on Amazon's cloud computers thanks to the Opera-like Silk browser, mainly because it has to work like this on the limited hardware inside the Fire).

That would be a deal breaker for me. I don't want to be limited to Amazon only.

It looks nice, but I don't really get the buzz on this. It looks like a Kindle upgrade, and a Kindle is a Kindle ... It's not an iPad or a tablet. It sounds like a decent value, but it is what it is.

[RainMaker]

The buzz is that it's a portable media device and that's it. It's for people who want to watch TV/movies, listen to music, and read books.

I know people want to compare it to iPad, but they aren't really trying to be that. They are saying "if you just want to watch, listen, and read stuff on a tablet, save yourself $300 and get this". Everyone else is trying to compete directly with the iPad and I think Amazon is smart to just say "we'll take the people who don't care about the camera, games, and apps and want to save money.".

It's basically what Apple did to laptops.

[stkelly52]

While they look cool and all, Amazon still refuses to support Epub. That is like buying a TV that can't receive any network stations. I'll pass.

[gstelmack]

Not looking to single you out, but that's not necessarily the case - not for the entire industry, anyway. E-books eliminate printing and distribution costs, yes, but the production costs (copy-editing, typesetting etc.) are still there. That's the most expensive part of the entire process, print or digital. In my part of the industry (I'm an editor for a large academic publisher) the revenue generated by an average print title is pretty crappy ... If I cut the prices of books to reflect what the public feels e-books are 'worth', I'd be out of a job pretty quickly and my authors would receive even less in the way of royalties.

That's academic publishing, but it's a similar story for the big-time houses too.

A couple of points:

How does this stack up for your typical bestseller? The more physical copies you print, the smaller percentage copy-editing takes, right? And academic is typically going to be a much larger book to begin with, so the copy-editing / typesetting is going to be higher than the typical paperback? Genuinely asking, I'm not sure how this breaks down.
How expensive is typesetting for an eBook? I get the copy-edit costs, but in this electronic age for an eBook how is this not just changing the page setup in the word processor? Another genuine question, what is really involved here?
Thena gain, I've seen some pretty lousy typesetting on eBooks, so not even that step appears to be taken quite often. I get the occasional spelling / character errors (copy protection for electronic print media), but when the entire book's layout is messed up, it's clear not much thought went into this.
This does not explain how the Kindle edition is sometimes MORE expensive when you don't have a physical book to produce.Basically all you have with an eBook are the upfront costs. There is copy-editing and typesetting, but your only per-book expense is Amazon's cut to cover bandwidth, assuming you go through Amazon in the first place (Baen doesn't very often, for example). Unless I'm missing something else?

[gstelmack]

While they look cool and all, Amazon still refuses to support Epub. That is like buying a TV that can't receive any network stations. I'll pass.

http://techlogg.com/2010/12/how-to-read-epub-ebooks-on-a-kindle/1899

[wade moore]

You mean one has to choose whether they are able to read/access or not, depending on location and coverage and other technological glitches? It sounds disadvantageous to having to plan ahead in order to read/listen/access and to hope that you are still able to do so once there. Listening to my complete music/audiobook collection depends only upon me remember to charge the batteries.

And that's fine, you can pay $800 for a 64 Gig Ipad if you want.

This is not geared towards you.

This is geared towards those that want a tablet for some basic features, but don't want to pay full price tag for it.

I think this thing is going to be very successful for that reason.

[wade moore]

The buzz is that it's a portable media device and that's it. It's for people who want to watch TV/movies, listen to music, and read books.

I know people want to compare it to iPad, but they aren't really trying to be that. They are saying "if you just want to watch, listen, and read stuff on a tablet, save yourself $300 and get this". Everyone else is trying to compete directly with the iPad and I think Amazon is smart to just say "we'll take the people who don't care about the camera, games, and apps and want to save money.".

It's basically what Apple did to laptops.

yes, exactly. You put it way better than I did.

[Super Ugly]

A couple of points:

How does this stack up for your typical bestseller? The more physical copies you print, the smaller percentage copy-editing takes, right? And academic is typically going to be a much larger book to begin with, so the copy-editing / typesetting is going to be higher than the typical paperback? Genuinely asking, I'm not sure how this breaks down.
How expensive is typesetting for an eBook? I get the copy-edit costs, but in this electronic age for an eBook how is this not just changing the page setup in the word processor? Another genuine question, what is really involved here?
Thena gain, I've seen some pretty lousy typesetting on eBooks, so not even that step appears to be taken quite often. I get the occasional spelling / character errors (copy protection for electronic print media), but when the entire book's layout is messed up, it's clear not much thought went into this.
This does not explain how the Kindle edition is sometimes MORE expensive when you don't have a physical book to produce.Basically all you have with an eBook are the upfront costs. There is copy-editing and typesetting, but your only per-book expense is Amazon's cut to cover bandwidth, assuming you go through Amazon in the first place (Baen doesn't very often, for example). Unless I'm missing something else?

My apologies, I should've been a little less vague in my last post. I preface the following by noting that publishing's a very compartmentalised industry - a book production manager would write this with more authority. But anyway, I'll do my best and answer each point in turn ...


In my world, and at this point in time, a bestseller is a book that shifts maybe 2-3k units on an initial print run. A typical scholarly monograph might sell in the low hundreds if you're lucky. I think that what you're suggesting is that production costs are offset in the long run. I wish that were the case in academic - they have a huge impact on the profit margins. Is it different in trade? Yeah, I guess so - but only for the major bestsellers, I suspect.

Are the production costs higher in academic than for trade? Depends on the book. A monograph won't cost as much to typeset as an illustrated cookbook, but a fully-illustrated biology textbook is mind-bogglingly expensive to produce when compared with your average blockbuster novel. I'm stating the obvious there, and I do apologise - I feel like I haven't really answered your question ...?

I'm afraid I can't give you a decent answer to what's involved in typesetting, either. Even to people like me, it's a strange and mysterious process during which manuscripts are sent far away (usually to places like India, where most of the typesetters seem to be based these days) and then come back all beautifully laid out. It's way more technical than changing settings in a word processor, and it explains why you've seen so many examples of shitty typesetting. People want to avoid the cost and that's fine, but it results in an inferior product. I've only ever come across one 'proper' book that was typeset using Word, and that was a complete bitch to produce.

As for your last point about the Kindle edition being more expensive than the print ... yeah, that stinks. There are numerous reasons for publishers doing that, but I don't necessarily agree with them.


One last thing - the cut that we pay Amazon isn't trivial. We're talking somewhere in the region of 30-40% (and I would guess it's even higher for big trade sellers).

I'm not going to say that publishers' hands are tied. Times are tough at the moment, but we've had it pretty good over the years. We need to change our business model, and we'll have to adapt. But it's a work in progress.

Sorry for the slightly rambling response, and for not giving you any substantial answers. Let's just say that I'm not feeling particularly focused today. :p

[gstelmack]

I think there is a clear difference between academic and trade. When you're moving 100K+ units, that fixed cost of copy-editing and typesetting should disappear compared to 3K units. I don't buy academic tomes on Kindle, I'm buying science fiction and other novels.

[MikeVic]

I've been reading a lot more in the last few months so I looked into getting a Kindle (or something similar), but was pretty shocked that the prices are fairly close for the books I was looking at. I'd rather take a hard-copy book from the library, or buy a physical copy to read rather than invest in one of these and also pay the same amount for digital books. Yes it makes reading more convenient (less bulk, easy to carry, etc.), but the cost is still not where I'd like it to be.

[DanGarion]

Dangarion - the point is that this is not a full featured tablet. Anything but, to be honest. It's sole purpose is to consume content you purchase from Amazon.com.

Yeah I understand that, and at that price it is a great deal and solidly puts them in the tablet market as a contender.

[stevew]

The thread title also deserves this.

http://i.imgur.com/HWJLm.jpg

need more of this.

[DaddyTorgo]

Word from Beezos that Amazon isn't going to go to any lengths to try to restrict people from rooting either.

[terpkristin]

Well I pre-ordered a Fire. I figure that I've been working some OT lately and it'd be a fun toy to goof off with.

Funnily, the last mission that I was more or less the lead on, I used the OT to buy a Kindle 2 (which I still have and use regularly). This one probably won't get much book use, but I want to see how it goes....

/tk

[stevew]

Do they charge you at pre order, or when it ships? Was thinking of getting one for my daughter cause she wants a kindle, and is always messing with my iPad.

[jeff061]

Word from Beezos that Amazon isn't going to go to any lengths to try to restrict people from rooting either.

This is huge given what they are doing with it. Only question is how well it performs when you start doing non stock stuff with it. If its half way decent I'm in.

[Havok]

I'm going to be getting a kindle for Christmas this year and this looks extremely appealing to me. Now my question is, will it still have the E-ink screen thingy that the regular kindles have?

[cougarfreak]

I'm going to be getting a kindle for Christmas this year and this looks extremely appealing to me. Now my question is, will it still have the E-ink screen thingy that the regular kindles have?

No, I do not believe it does. That's why I'll probably stick with the kindle touch.

[Draft Dodger]

I was set on getting a Fire, but I didn't realize I pretty much had to buy all my crap through Amazon I'll probably pass

[Havok]

No, I do not believe it does. That's why I'll probably stick with the kindle touch.

man that sucks :(

[Scoobz0202]

I'm also really curious about the touch. While reading earlier I was thinking about the touch interface and i just do not know if I want it. After using my kindle for over a year I kind of have it set how i hold it and turn the pages just using one hand. Stupid, I know, to think I can't just hold it a different way. I wish the touch kept the page turn buttons just for the sake of having them there.

[DaddyTorgo]

I was set on getting a Fire, but I didn't realize I pretty much had to buy all my crap through Amazon I'll probably pass

Who says you have to. You can root it and install whatever you want.

[Draft Dodger]

in English please?

[jeff061]

You can jail break it. But unlike Apple, Amazon is ok with you doing it. So it shouldn't be a hassle.

[Draft Dodger]

but then can I buy an ebook from Amazon if I'm so inclined?

[DaddyTorgo]

but then can I buy an ebook from Amazon if I'm so inclined?

Yep. Jail breaking it won't affect your ability to run amazon apps...it will just open it up so you can customize it in any number of ways (say removing the amazon browser or the UI).

[SteveMax58]

Yep. Jail breaking it won't affect your ability to run amazon apps...it will just open it up so you can customize it in any number of ways (say removing the amazon browser or the UI).

Do you know what OS they will use? Something Amazon made?

Also...any idea whether they will have a DRM-capable video chip? Just thinking that if you do use custom software, wondering how something like Netflix might work on it.

[DaddyTorgo]

Do you know what OS they will use? Something Amazon made?

Also...any idea whether they will have a DRM-capable video chip? Just thinking that if you do use custom software, wondering how something like Netflix might work on it.

If I recall aren't they using a fork off of android 2.2? The UI itself though is completely redone to be simplified and stripped down and feature amazon services.

But once you root you spill be able to load up any version of android.

[stevew]

I'm guessing that it will run like garbage if rooted. It's optimized for their specific UI. The hardware itself is probably not packing a ton of power.

[Scoobz0202]

That really depends on some variables I think steve. The hardware will surely not be similar to a $500 tablet. But with the amount of tablets that could potentially be sold there are some really capable developers in the rooting world that will take notice. I have no doubt that there will be those out there that are able to optimize a root that runs fine on it. Maybe not with blazing speed, but I wouldn't say garbage at all. Speaking just for phones, I've rooted three, all on android. Never did a root run slower then the stock. Actually, it ran better everytime. The optimizing towards amazon software, eh, I don't know how much of an impact that will have on what the hardware itself is capable of.

There's still a lot of questions, though, and it is way too early to tell. I plan on pre-ordering and keeping my fingers crossed. Worse case, I will take full advantage of the awesome return policy that amazon has.

Or I may just wait for a 10 inch that is rumored. I've even seen rumors of a 10 inch amazon tablet for the end of this year. Who knows.

[Scoobz0202]

Found this fascinating for those considering a kindle. If you decide to purchase a kindle, might as well buy the ad-supported one. Through your kindle you can turn ad's off for a $30 fee if you find them to be too annoying.



http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2394197,00.asp#fbid=euoERVHC6FY

[Doug5984]

Found this fascinating for those considering a kindle. If you decide to purchase a kindle, might as well buy the ad-supported one. Through your kindle you can turn ad's off for a $30 fee if you find them to be too annoying.



Amazon Allowing Users to Pay to Get Rid of Kindle Ads | News & Opinion | PCMag.com (http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2394197,00.asp#fbid=euoERVHC6FY)

In the other e-book thread I posted my experiences with the kindle ads- they are great. They never interfere with anything, and I've used quite a few of them to get "free" things (but any book off this list get $10 amazon gift card- and the books are as cheap as $2- $8 free). I forget all the ones I've used, but they are pretty great.

[Scoobz0202]

Yea. I had the 3rd gen without, now i have the 4th with ads and it's fine. Sure, some of the pictures for screen savers were neat but not $30 neat.

[stevew]

Found this fascinating for those considering a kindle. If you decide to purchase a kindle, might as well buy the ad-supported one. Through your kindle you can turn ad's off for a $30 fee if you find them to be too annoying.



Amazon Allowing Users to Pay to Get Rid of Kindle Ads | News & Opinion | PCMag.com (http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2394197,00.asp#fbid=euoERVHC6FY)

I saw this and had similar thoughts. Almost no reason to buy the 100 dollar version now, especially if you're unsure how much you will use it.

[Draft Dodger]

well, just took the plunge and pre-ordered one

[Desnudo]

I'm guessing that it will run like garbage if rooted. It's optimized for their specific UI. The hardware itself is probably not packing a ton of power.

I rooted my color nook to cyanogenmod, which is the most popular android aftermarket build.

http://www.cyanogenmod.com/

I'm sure they'll have a Fire version available at some point.

The rooting allows me to overclock the cpu and remove crapware, among other things. I saw a substantial improvement in performance using recommended tweaks. Essentially I got an android tablet with eInk for around $200 (forget the exact price I paid, less than retail).

If you're able to do the same for the Fire, it's certainly a bargain as long as you don't mind the smaller screen.

[stevew]

Anyone have a Kindle Fire yet?

[SirFozzie]

Me!

I find it pretty neat.. the only thing I don't like so far (other then one hang), is that you're locked out of the android market, and that you have to use the Amazon Appstore for purchases. Some of my games are not available in the Appstore.

[terpkristin]

I have the Fire.

It's pretty good at what it is...which is basically a larger personal media device. I'm quite enjoying reading on it (more than I thought I would...I'm actually using it more than my 2nd gen Kindle for reading right now). The apps are alright...I've got an iPhone so I'm not really looking for too many apps. Still hunting for a good Twitter app, though...

Haven't used the music feature (see previous comment about owning an iPhone...), nor do I envision really doing so. First night I got it, I wanted to play around with shopping the Amazon store on it so bought and downloaded the movie "Super" on it. It works pretty well. I also grabbed the Netflix app, and have streamed stuff from both Netflix and Amazon Prime. It works well over my wi-fi. I've read other people complaining that it doesn't work well, but I'm chalking that up to a network issue. I enjoy streaming something while I'm in bed, trying to get ready to doze. I don't like having the TV on--too bright and I'm less likely to turn it off. This works well. :D

The web browser is alright. I'm kind of annoyed that it loads the mobile versions of GMail and Google Reader, but that's a small nit. I loaded (and bookmarked) all of the pages I visit regularly and they all work well. I've surfed a bit in bed every night so far...

Three gripes:
1) It should have hardware buttons or otherwise one-tap access for volume control. It amazes me it doesn't.
2) The "coverflow" on the main page is annoying. I far prefer the "shelf" system it has. I wish the main page was a full shelf of favorite apps and books I could select.
3) It doesn't come with a cable to hook it into my computer...or any other USB charger that I have. Also, the cable on the charger that comes with it is super short. I can't sit on my couch and use it while it's charging, which is irritating.

All in all, a lot of the minor nits I have with it (such as coverflow) and I've seen written about it could be fixed with firmware/software updates. I like it. I'm going to take it to my folks' house for Thanksgiving and it's going to be my main web device when I go to London next month (though I'm going for work so will have my work laptop with me).

It's not an iPad replacement, and nor do I think it's really trying to be. But in my opinion, it's pretty good at what it's intended to be...

/tk

[cougarfreak]

Terp, so your 2nd gen Kindle USB doesn't work with the fire?

[Buccaneer]

Terp, let me get this straight. You have a home PC/laptop, a work PC (I assume), an iPad, an iPod, and iPhone, a Kindle and now a Fire. Why?

[spleen1015]

Terp, let me get this straight. You have a home PC/laptop, a work PC (I assume), an iPad, an iPod, and iPhone, a Kindle and now a Fire. Why?

She's a chick that likes her gadgets man!

[terpkristin]

Terp, let me get this straight. You have a home PC/laptop, a work PC (I assume), an iPad, an iPod, and iPhone, a Kindle and now a Fire. Why?

Actually no iPad...yet (holding out for 3rd gen...)

But I do have an iPod Classic, an iPod Nano (4th gen), and an iPod shuffle (3rd gen?) in addition to the iPhone....

As spleen said, I like gadgets....

Terp, so your 2nd gen Kindle USB doesn't work with the fire?

It seems to. But I was surprised that the charger for the Fire wasn't more like the plug that I got with the 2nd gen Kindle which was a plug that goes into an outlet and has a USB port, with a USB-to-mini USB cable... I read somewhere that the Fire needs a 2.1 A USB charger instead of a (more standard?) 1.x A USB charger.

/tk

[cougarfreak]

Actually no iPad...yet (holding out for 3rd gen...)

But I do have an iPod Classic, an iPod Nano (4th gen), and an iPod shuffle (3rd gen?) in addition to the iPhone....

As spleen said, I like gadgets....



It seems to. But I was surprised that the charger for the Fire wasn't more like the plug that I got with the 2nd gen Kindle which was a plug that goes into an outlet and has a USB port, with a USB-to-mini USB cable... I read somewhere that the Fire needs a 2.1 A USB charger instead of a (more standard?) 1.x A USB charger.

/tk

Thanks, I've been getting conflicting reports on whether the previous Kindle USB cords work. That is a must for me. I have lots of books that I've converted with Calibre that I'll need to transfer over if I get a Fire.

[terpkristin]

Thanks, I've been getting conflicting reports on whether the previous Kindle USB cords work. That is a must for me. I have lots of books that I've converted with Calibre that I'll need to transfer over if I get a Fire.

In the interest of complete honesty, I'm not sure if I'm doing any damage to my Fire by using it. But it seems to work....

And I was able to plug my Fire into my computer and drag a copy of The Last Ringbearer (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Ringbearer) .mobi file (http://www.akademy.co.uk/blog/2011/02/kindle-formats-calibre-conversions-and-the-last-ring-bearer/) I had lying around to it. And the file worked just fine, it was recognized as a book and I could read it just like on my 2nd gen Kindle...

/tk

[cougarfreak]

Thanks, I've been getting conflicting reports on whether the previous Kindle USB cords work. That is a must for me. I have lots of books that I've converted with Calibre that I'll need to transfer over if I get a Fire.

In the interest of complete honesty, I'm not sure if I'm doing any damage to my Fire by using it. But it seems to work....

And I was able to plug my Fire into my computer and drag a copy of The Last Ringbearer (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Ringbearer) .mobi file (http://www.akademy.co.uk/blog/2011/02/kindle-formats-calibre-conversions-and-the-last-ring-bearer/) I had lying around to it. And the file worked just fine, it was recognized as a book and I could read it just like on my 2nd gen Kindle...

/tk
Good to know. I appreciate it.

Sent from my Desire HD using Tapatalk

[SirFozzie]

Get Calibre for converting books between ereader formats and to put them on the Fire. The previous Kindle USB cord (and plug iunto electrical outlet) works for me.

[stevew]

If anything, it would be a similar situation to the iPhone/iPad. You can charge the iPad with the iPhone adapter, but it takes a long time because it doesn't provide as much charge.

[cougarfreak]

Get Calibre for converting books between ereader formats and to put them on the Fire. The previous Kindle USB cord (and plug iunto electrical outlet) works for me.

That's what I was wanting to know before I buy one. Thanks, I appreciate it.

[Draft Dodger]

I'm liking mine as well. It was a real struggle on Friday night trying to get everything set up I think because Amazon's servers were getting hammered. Since then, it's been better, although I still find the web surfing to be sluggish.

Did buy one book and really enjoyed reading on it. So far, definitely a good purchase. Need to pick up a little case for it though.

[AgustusM]

The funny thing is that the relationship between the Kindle and paper books have gone the way of High Definition programming to Standard Definition. Just as I can't really watch SD programming anymore, I can't read a paper book all that often. I have books that I started reading a year and a half ago, but I haven't made much of a dent, because 99% of my reading is on my Kindle.

It helps that I do most of my reading on the train, where the lighter, thinner Kindle is much more useful and the fact that I can immediately download a new book after I finish one is major plus.

I agree with this 100% - I have re-purchased books I have already owned for years sitting on my bookshelf that I wanted to reread and couldn't stand to deal with the hassle of the book, especially big bulky hardcovers.

I also find the sample chapters often save me from spending time and money on a book I would have otherwise bought.

[AgustusM]

Terp, let me get this straight. You have a home PC/laptop, a work PC (I assume), an iPad, an iPod, and iPhone, a Kindle and now a Fire. Why?

I have all of this as well, along with two xboxs, a wii, 3 apple TVs, 4 HDTVS - the question is why not?!?

[terpkristin]

I have all of this as well, along with two xboxs, a wii, 3 apple TVs, 4 HDTVS - the question is why not?!?

Yeah, I decided not to go into my other stuff (though I only have 1 HDTV....).

Back on topic...I think I like reading on my Fire better than reading on my 2nd gen Kindle. I didn't expect that at all...

/tk

[cougarfreak]

Yeah, I decided not to go into my other stuff (though I only have 1 HDTV....).

Back on topic...I think I like reading on my Fire better than reading on my 2nd gen Kindle. I didn't expect that at all...

/tk

I looked at a demo one at Best Buy yesterday, and it looked great for reading, unless, of course, you're outside in sunlight.

[claphamsa]

question, the GF just got a fire for her mom, and were "setting it up" she seems to think her kindle works with sprint 3G connection and that its a problem that the fire doesnt.... this makes no sense to me

[terpkristin]

Fire is wi-fi only. The Kindles with the e-ink screens that have 3G either use the Sprint one or the (I think) AT&T one, depending what generation Kindle it is.

But Fire is definitely wi-fi only.

/tk

[GrantDawg]

I bought my wife a Kindle keyboard two weeks ago. I got that because she nor I have good luck with trying to use touch screens, so I figured this would be easier. I almost got her a Fire, but my friend talked me out of it. He has a older Kindle and an IPad, and he said reading off the IPad will tire out your eyes pretty quickly. So far, she is in absolute love. She would go crazy if she didn't have anything to read, and now she has a limitless supply that she can update at any time. Best present I could have ever given her.

[Senator]

I ordered a Kindle touch for my niece, and it came in today. I was adding books so when she gets it, she can just go to town and read. On the Amazon website for the touch, it shows the covers of the books on the home screen page.
Well, it only lists each book in a column, and there is not option to list books by their covers.
Am I missing something or has Amazon pulled a fast one?

[ISiddiqui]

Based on the screen in question, that looks like a Kindle store view.

[cougarfreak]

Bought a Fire today. I'm pretty impressed. Books are great, browsing is pretty easy. ESPN 3 online content worked flawless, as did Netflix. Transferring files was a snap. PDF files work ok, I'll be able to load the textbook I teach from in pdf format to it. All in all, it's a very handy device.

[SirFozzie]

Love the Emit app for android/kindle, where I can stream my video from my computer through my wifi network to the droid cell phone or kindle fire.. (and if I had a fast pipe and opened the right ports, I could do that when on the road as well)

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Bought the Fire today for a Xmas present for my wife. She's going to love it.

[MizzouRah]

Bought the Fire today for a Xmas present for my wife. She's going to love it.

I'm going to pick one soon for the family.

[terpkristin]

I still really like my Fire. Been using it instead of my laptop for general surfing and video streaming. And obviously reading.

Took it to my folks' place tonight, my dad was also really impressed. After seeing his reaction to mine, my mom bought one for my dad for Christmas.

/tk

[MizzouRah]

I still really like my Fire. Been using it instead of my laptop for general surfing and video streaming. And obviously reading.

Took it to my folks' place tonight, my dad was also really impressed. After seeing his reaction to mine, my mom bought one for my dad for Christmas.

/tk

Now that's pretty cool.

[MizzouRah]

My Kindle fire came in today, love it so far. Not sure why I wanted a 10.1" tablet instead of a 7", but the latter is much easier to carry around.

Everything has been easy and straightforward. Highly recommended.

[cougarfreak]

For those of you that bought a Fire, I bought this case, and it's worked great for me. And it's cheaper than a lot of them out there.

Amazon.com: splash SIGNATURE Folio Leather Case Cover Fits Amazon Kindle FIRE Tablet with Stand (Black): Computers & Accessories (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005RFFSOQ/ref=oh_o03_s00_i00_details)

[MizzouRah]

For those of you that bought a Fire, I bought this case, and it's worked great for me. And it's cheaper than a lot of them out there.

Amazon.com: splash SIGNATURE Folio Leather Case Cover Fits Amazon Kindle FIRE Tablet with Stand (Black): Computers & Accessories (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005RFFSOQ/ref=oh_o03_s00_i00_details)

That one looks nice, here's the one I bought with mine - I don't need one that stands.

Amazon.com: Timbuk2 Kindle Fire ENVELOPE SLEEVE: Kindle Store (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005K2XNGG/ref=oh_o00_s00_i01_details)

[terpkristin]

I still love mine. I keep reading the reviews and very few of the issues they mention haw manifested for me.

I have no issue with a non-responsive touch screen, all the websites I load have no problem, page turns don't bother me I the least...

Still only have two gripes, both minor. 1) I don't like the "coverflow" on the main page. 2) I think it should have hardware buttons for vole control.

/tk

[terpkristin]

Dola,
Volume control. Don't know how it handles voles... ;)

/tk

[Rizon]

Opinions?

http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/06/tech/gaming-gadgets/kindle-fire-panned-nielsen/index.html?hpt=hp_c2

[cougarfreak]

Opinions?

http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/06/tech/gaming-gadgets/kindle-fire-panned-nielsen/index.html?hpt=hp_c2

I've never had connection issues. Heck today, I was at the school I teach at, and was able to get on there, and I've had issues with my school issued ipad getting on there (our wireless is new and still having problems). As far as the weight, I've had no issues. Turning pages was weird at first for me, coming from the K2. No problems at all now, it's no different than pressing a button. I hold it on the edges, then take one finger, and press the right edge of the screen, and the page turns. You don't have to finger swipe.

If anyone has concerns, I'd highly recommend going to a best buy, or someplace similar, and try it out. Or heck, Amazon has a 30 day no questions asked return policy. I really like the cover I mentioned before, it makes it easier to hold, and stand on it's own if I want. It's no different than my K2, I liked it better with a cover.

[MizzouRah]

Yeah TK, would love volume controls too..

[Sublime 2]

Just bought one with some poker winnings after stepping on my Kindle w/ keyboard last week. Picked up the cover you suggested as well cougarfreak.

[Draft Dodger]

agree with volume control (and battery indicator). and the carousel, which is fairly useless to me.

overall, I'm very happy with this. truthfully, I am using this more as a high-end book reader than a low-end tablet. I have found the web browser to be pretty slow, but I don't use it enough to really annoy me. I use it to read books and maybe play an odd game of Angry Birds or something.

I haven't found it too heavy at all, in fact I've been pleased with how compact it is - easy to slide into my pocket to take with me to my kids various functions.

touch screen seems responsive enough to me, surprisingly as a lot of the early reviews harped on it. I do find sometimes I have to tap a second time to get the page to turn, but it's not a huge deal to me.

one issue I had was when I emailed a doc to it and it never showed up. I ended up chatting with an Amazon tech support rep. She had me turn the system off and back on and all was fixed.

in the end, I'm liking it a lot more than I thought I would.

[cubboyroy1826]

Just bought a Kindle Fire for my 11 year old daughter as a Christmas gift (shhhh). I am looking for a case that has the strap on the back for holding yet comes in a girlie color. Any recommendations?

[MizzouRah]

My 9 year old won't give mine back! :)

[cougarfreak]

Just bought one with some poker winnings after stepping on my Kindle w/ keyboard last week. Picked up the cover you suggested as well cougarfreak.

I hope that cover works as well for you as it is for me.

[MizzouRah]

All these Apps are 10 cents today on the Android Marketplace for Google reaching 10 billion downloads. I'd get them as fast as you can cause i'm not sure they'll offer these tomorrow.

Paper Camera <!-- m -->https://market.android.com/details?id=c ... _promotion (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.dama.papercamera&feature=apps_timed_promotion)<!-- m -->

Fielddrunners HD <!-- m -->https://market.android.com/details?id=c ... _promotion (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.subatomicstudios&feature=apps_timed_promotion)<!-- m -->

Great Little War Game <!-- m -->https://market.android.com/details?id=c ... _promotion (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.rubicon.dev.glwg&feature=apps_timed_promotion)<!-- m -->

Minecraft Pocket Edition <!-- m -->https://market.android.com/details?id=c ... _promotion (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.mojang.minecraftpe&feature=apps_timed_promotion)<!-- m -->

Asphalt 6 Adrenaline HD <!-- m -->https://market.android.com/details?id=c ... _promotion (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.gameloft.android.ANMP.GloftA6HP&feature=apps_timed_promotion)<!-- m -->

SoundHound Infinity <!-- m -->https://market.android.com/details?id=c ... _promotion (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.melodis.midomiMusicIdentifier&feature=apps_timed_promotion)<!-- m -->

Color & Draw for kids:phone edition <!-- m -->https://market.android.com/details?id=t ... _promotion (https://market.android.com/details?id=tipitap.coloring.phones&feature=apps_timed_promotion)<!-- m -->

Endomondo Sports Tracker PRO <!-- m -->https://market.android.com/details?id=c ... _promotion (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.endomondo.android.pro&feature=apps_timed_promotion)<!-- m -->

SketchBook Mobile <!-- m -->https://market.android.com/details?id=c ... _promotion (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.sketchbook&feature=apps_timed_promotion)<!-- m -->

Asphalt 6 is freaking sweet!

[Sublime 2]

Oh yeah, I'm in love! Love the case too.

[cougarfreak]

Oh yeah, I'm in love! Love the case too.

Awesome, glad it worked well for you.

[MizzouRah]

I've used my Kindle fire more in the first 4 days of having it then I ever used my galaxy that I had for months. It really is perfect for me.

[stevew]

Anyone have a line on some cheapish kindle touch cases? The Amazon one is like 40 bucks, and that's kind of extreme. Even a generic 6" ereader case would probably work. I accidentally bought the regular kindle case, and was going to exchange it for another one, but it's so insignificant(leather and plastic) for 40 dollars.

Yeah, i know i'm a cheap ass.

[Draft Dodger]

mine was $30 and I'm very happy with it
Amazon.com: Kindle Fire MicroShell Folio Cover by Marware: Kindle Store (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005V2EVBQ/ref=oh_o00_s00_i00_details)

[RainMaker]

Question for you guys. I'm desperate for a gift for my brother. He likes my iPad but doesn't seem interested in spending the money for one (nor do I want to spend that on him for the holidays). So I'm wondering if this is something that someone who doesn't read would enjoy. Basically, would this work as a low-end tablet?

He would probably just run some apps and maybe play a few games. Nothing big. Would this be worth it at all? Is there another option that would be better for him that wouldn't cost $500? I guess my concern is the browser would be too shitty and the whole thing too small.

[Doug5984]

My wife got one, I haven't read on it- but use it to play games, watching streaming stuff.. it's pretty fun. Is it worth $200 to do that? Not sure up to you. Could also try to pick him up a $99 touchpad (they are on ebay for around $200 now)- might be better if he wants to use it more as a browser.... but more limited in the apps.

[stevew]

Question for you guys. I'm desperate for a gift for my brother. He likes my iPad but doesn't seem interested in spending the money for one (nor do I want to spend that on him for the holidays). So I'm wondering if this is something that someone who doesn't read would enjoy. Basically, would this work as a low-end tablet?

He would probably just run some apps and maybe play a few games. Nothing big. Would this be worth it at all? Is there another option that would be better for him that wouldn't cost $500? I guess my concern is the browser would be too shitty and the whole thing too small.

Really doesn't seem to be a whole lot of stuff between this or the Nook Tablet at $250, and the iPad at $500.

Maybe you could get him an Apple Store gift card, so he could buy a iPod Touch or throw some of his own money and get a iPad?

The Blackberry Playbook is on sale for 199 I believe, but it's going to have marginal more functionality than the Fire, and is of a similar size.

[stevew]

Refrub'd Kindle DX with 3G and shipped in time for Xmas on woot.com for 199. At first glance that looks like a major steal.

[korme]

Was going to get the Kindle Touch for my mom, but realized it looks cheap and crappy... so I bought the Fire. Went in expecting to drop $70, instead dropped $250. Damn!

[ISiddiqui]

You also got her something that isn't as good for reading. I hope your mom was interested in more a tablet than a reader ;).

[mauchow]

It's been great for me as a reader - I haven't been outside yet though with it.

[korme]

You also got her something that isn't as good for reading. I hope your mom was interested in more a tablet than a reader ;).

Really, why is that? I just played with the Touch for a second and it seemed like it would lag or just load the next page funky. All in all it seems nicer, so in the end it's probably worth it

[thesloppy]

I thought my touch was awesome for a week. Now, I'd like to smash it against a wall.

[Sweed]

I thought my touch was awesome for a week. Now, I'd like to smash it against a wall.

Why? I ask because my daughter wanted a touch for Christmas and my wife went out to pick one up but came home with the Fire instead thinking it was what my daughter asked for. We're just wrapping up the Fire for her and letting her decide if she wants to exchange it. But if there is a reason to avoid the Touch it'd be nice to get a heads-up.

Thanks.

[thesloppy]

Why? I ask because my daughter wanted a touch for Christmas and my wife went out to pick one up but came home with the Fire instead thinking it was what my daughter asked for. We're just wrapping up the Fire for her and letting her decide if she wants to exchange it. But if there is a reason to avoid the Touch it'd be nice to get a heads-up.

Thanks.

The touch interface is wonky. After about a day I wished I just had a keyboard. It won't register, double-registers or misreads every 4th touch. This is a minor annoyance when just turning pages, but it's a deal killer interacting with the menu/keyboard for any length.

I could deal with all of that pretty easily, but mine also has severe processing problems. Maybe I loaded too much content onto it, but I don't think that's any kind of acceptable excuse. It crashes on 4 out of 5 searches, and anytime I use the keyboard it's prone to lock up for minutes, and it will often hit me with a "could not open application" error box....you're a stoopid Kindle Touch, you only have like 1 application! And it's just painfully slow at anything that involves even the slightest kind of processing...basically anything other than turning a single page has a chance to result in an extended lockup. Again, this all might be because I've got too much content indexed on there, but that's not an acceptable excuse, as far as I'm concerned.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to smash this little machine against a wall.

[stevew]

Why? I ask because my daughter wanted a touch for Christmas and my wife went out to pick one up but came home with the Fire instead thinking it was what my daughter asked for. We're just wrapping up the Fire for her and letting her decide if she wants to exchange it. But if there is a reason to avoid the Touch it'd be nice to get a heads-up.

Thanks.

I wanted to buy my daughter a fire, but she insisted she wanted the touch, so thats what i got her. I hope it isn't a mistake...single task items are really a pain in the ass to buy

[Sweed]

The touch interface is wonky. After about a day I wished I just had a keyboard. It won't register, double-registers or misreads every 4th touch. This is a minor annoyance when just turning pages, but it's a deal killer interacting with the menu/keyboard for any length.

I could deal with all of that pretty easily, but mine also has severe processing problems. Maybe I loaded too much content onto it, but I don't think that's any kind of acceptable excuse. It crashes on 4 out of 5 searches, and anytime I use the keyboard it's prone to lock up for minutes, and it will often hit me with a "could not open application" error box....you're a stoopid Kindle Touch, you only have like 1 application! And it's just painfully slow at anything that involves even the slightest kind of processing...basically anything other than turning a single page has a chance to result in an extended lockup. Again, this all might be because I've got too much content indexed on there, but that's not an acceptable excuse, as far as I'm concerned.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to smash this little machine against a wall.

Yeah, that doesn't sound good. Thanks again. I'll be sure to look at more reviews and show her this if she thinks she wants to exchange the Fire.

[Sweed]

I wanted to buy my daughter a fire, but she insisted she wanted the touch, so thats what i got her. I hope it isn't a mistake...single task items are really a pain in the ass to buy

I'm not sure if our daughter asked for the touch because she thought the Fire was too expensive (fwiw she's a senior in college so not like we're buying for a youngster) or if she just wanted a basic reader with the advantage of e-ink and no glare. Either works for me and the wife.

[ISiddiqui]

Really, why is that? I just played with the Touch for a second and it seemed like it would lag or just load the next page funky. All in all it seems nicer, so in the end it's probably worth it

Simple. e-ink vs. LCD. LCD is fine for surfing the web, as I tend to jump from one site to another, dealing with different message boards at the same time along with some news sites / blogs. However, when it is time to focus on text, the eye strain makes reading on an LCD somewhat tedious over a period of time. e-ink is far more easier on the eyes.

I have a Kindle 2, whose e-ink screen isn't as good as the new Kindles. I'd much rather prefer that to read a book rather than my Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 or computer monitors at home or work - no contest.

Oh, and to add, e-ink works perfectly in sunlight (it really is akin to reading a paper book), while LCD screens don't.

[stevew]

I'm not sure if our daughter asked for the touch because she thought the Fire was too expensive (fwiw she's a senior in college so not like we're buying for a youngster) or if she just wanted a basic reader with the advantage of e-ink and no glare. Either works for me and the wife.

My daughter is 13, so I was worried that she didn't want to ask for something she thought we couldn't afford. Took her to staples to check them all out just to make sure.

[MizzouRah]

Knock on wood.. I haven't had any real issues with my Fire. Sometimes a touch doesn't register, but it's never during a game only when clicking on an app or sometimes while I'm trying to click an internet link.

I would assume an os update is in the works to fix any release day issues?

[thesloppy]

I would assume an os update is in the works to fix any release day issues?

That's what I'm kind of hoping for, in the case of my Touch as well.

After writing my nasty review on here, I picked up my Kindle to give it another look, and now it won't open anything at all...I just get a blank page, with a menu bar at the top. I assume mine is just screwed up, so my issues may all just be due to the fact that I got a bad individual machine...which doesn't make ME feel any better about the little piece of crap, but your mileage may vary, and take that into account when weighing the issues I had.

[ISiddiqui]

Interestingly enough in many online reviews, the $79 Kindle got the higher reviews. Though those were mostly based on the fact that it was lighter than the $99 Kindle Touch.

[thesloppy]

Interestingly enough in many online reviews, the $79 Kindle got the higher reviews. Though those were mostly based on the fact that it was lighter than the $99 Kindle Touch.

Yeah...I was going to note that the Touch was rated 4 1/2 stars on Amazon, when it only had a few hundred reviews, a week after it came out, but was down to 3 1/2 stars recently, but has since bounced back to 4. Most of the complaints seem to be about the wonkiness of the touch stuff, and if I had another shot I'd grab the keyboard one, because the search/UI stuff seemed like it did benefit a lot from a keyboard...but I also think that the keyboard might only be available with the older screen tech (?). It's also still rated 4 1/2 stars, with 35,000 reviews.

[ISiddiqui]

The Kindle Keyboard has the same screen tech - the Pearl e-ink.

[George]

Knock on wood.. I haven't had any real issues with my Fire. Sometimes a touch doesn't register, but it's never during a game only when clicking on an app or sometimes while I'm trying to click an internet link.

I would assume an os update is in the works to fix any release day issues?

I believe an update has been released.

http://www.zdnet.com/blog/mobile-gadgeteer/kindle-fire-gets-a-performance-update/5362

[MizzouRah]

I believe an update has been released.

Kindle Fire gets a performance update | ZDNet (http://www.zdnet.com/blog/mobile-gadgeteer/kindle-fire-gets-a-performance-update/5362)

Thanks, I already notice better touch sensitivity.

[RainMaker]

So I played around with the Kindle Fire I bought for my brother at Christmas. I really like the device. Was worried it would be too small but it actually is almost a perfect size. And I didn't mind the weight either, it made it feel sturdy.

Not sure I would recommend this to readers, but I do think it's a nice iPad alternative for those who don't need the extras (camera, GPS, etc). Browser isn't as fast and the touchscreen isn't as intuitive, but it's not that far off.

My only gripe would be the lack of apps right now. Didn't feel like a lot of the major companies had them yet. If that changes though, I think it's a steal at $200 for anyone who wants a tablet but doesn't think they'll use it a ton.

[thesloppy]

After complaining about my Touch a bunch in this thread, I would be remiss if I didn't mention that I managed to clear up the big issues I was having, after some research. Apparently adding big batches of content to the Touch blows its little mind, and you have to add stuff in small batches (~10 at a time, and no more than 25 a day) to allow it to index properly. I had to delete everything, reset to factory defaults, and re-add all my content in tiny batches, but it works much better now, and I'm 99% less likely to smash it against a wall.

[thesloppy]

Just cuz.

[cougarfreak]

Why download all contents to the device? Just pick one from the archive and when done reading that book delete back to archive and pick another one from the archive to download.

It it's wifi only, and you don't have wifi at your house, you may have to get it while around a hotspot.............

Just a guess.

[stevew]

The new Kindle Fire 8.9 was announced.

Kindle Fire HD 8.9" 4G - Latest Wireless Technology with 4G LTE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008GFRDL0/ref=amb_link_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=gateway-center-column&pf_rd_r=097RJ25NFMA2DC5N97PT&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1395759562&pf_rd_i=507846)

It's an 8.9" tablet with 4G(and one without) for 499.

Groundbreaking 4G LTE Package
Kindle Fire HD 8.9" offers the most affordable 4G tablet data package. Amazon's 12 month 4G data package includes 250 MB a month of blazing fast 4G data, 20 GB of additional Cloud Drive storage, and $10 Amazon Appstore promotional credit, all for a one-time payment of only $49.99, no monthly payments required. If you need more data, additional 3 GB and 5 GB data plans are also available for purchase. You can sign up for a data plan right from your device.

The internet package on that is freaking amazing, if you don't need a ton of data.

Also the Kindle Fire HD 7" is coming out for $199. The existing unit drops to $159.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0083PWAPW/ref=amb_link_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=gateway-center-column&pf_rd_r=097RJ25NFMA2DC5N97PT&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1395759562&pf_rd_i=507846

[ISiddiqui]

The Paperwhite be far more impressive. Every tech site is practically drooling over it. Incredible e-ink resolution, a light that barely gets in the way, and 8 weeks of battery life WITH the light on... wow!

Kindle Paperwhite - Touch Screen Ereader with Built-In Light (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007OZNZG0/ref=amb_link_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=gateway-center-column&pf_rd_r=1PS4PAP84MHE37HSKQRV&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1395759562&pf_rd_i=507846)

[jeff061]

7" is still more interesting. I'm not sure I'm sold on a Kindle at the $500 price mark. Even the 7" may take a backseat to the Nexus.

All that said, I still have no interest in owning a tablet of any form :).

[jeff061]

The Paperwhite be far more impressive. Every tech site is practically drooling over it. Incredible e-ink resolution, a light that barely gets in the way, and 8 weeks of battery life WITH the light on... wow!

Kindle Paperwhite - Touch Screen Ereader with Built-In Light (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007OZNZG0/ref=amb_link_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=gateway-center-column&pf_rd_r=1PS4PAP84MHE37HSKQRV&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1395759562&pf_rd_i=507846)

This is more interesting to me. Potential replacement for me or my Mom.

[Logan]

That's pretty cool. I've been meaning to get a light for my older model Kindle, since I prefer to do my reading before bed and I don't want to annoy my fiancee with a bedside light. All those clip on types seemed to be clumsy and annoying. Might be time to upgrade.

[cschex]

Perfect timing for me, since I recently cracked the screen on my Kindle Keyboard (totally my fault). I've been holding off since I knew Amazon would release a new version for the holiday season and figured it would have a built in light since the new Nook does....and always, Amazon undercuts the Nook price by $20. It's like clockwork at this point

[Ksyrup]

This is more interesting to me. Potential replacement for me or my Mom.

You've must not think very highly of yourself or your mom. :p

[Groundhog]

Wow, Paperwhite looks excellent. I have no need to upgrade from my Kindle Keyboard at the moment, but happy to see Kindle tech pushing forward.

[terpkristin]

The Paperwhite be far more impressive. Every tech site is practically drooling over it. Incredible e-ink resolution, a light that barely gets in the way, and 8 weeks of battery life WITH the light on... wow!

Kindle Paperwhite - Touch Screen Ereader with Built-In Light (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007OZNZG0/ref=amb_link_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=gateway-center-column&pf_rd_r=1PS4PAP84MHE37HSKQRV&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1395759562&pf_rd_i=507846)

Yeah, I just bought (well, about 2 months ago) the low-end Kindle so I would have it for my traveling this summer (French Guiana, London/UK, Seattle...). Their new offerings make my Kindle Fire (original) and the Kindle I just bought look downright wimpy. I might splurge on the Paperwhite version. Will wait for some reviews.

/tk

[PurdueBrad]

I'm yet to take a plunge in the tablet market but I believe the 8.9" Kindle Fire HD with 4G is going to draw me in. I love my Kindle and will still likely use it for all reading but the Kindle Fire will just be great to have and my son can likely get some use out of it on long car rides.

[RainMaker]

Is there any reason to take the Kindle Fire over the Nexus tablet? The Nexus runs a newer version of Android, doesn't have the Amazon skin with ads, and seems to have better specs in a lot of areas. Only thing I see that the Kindle Fire seems to have is an HDMI out which I guess is a big plus if you're going to stream to your TV.

Here are the specs I found:

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2409362,00.asp

I'm planning on grabbing one for my brother as a birthday gift. Just sort of confused which to go with. The one thing about the old Kindle Fire that irked me was their stupid skin. Just hated the UI of it.

[Easy Mac]

It's $100 cheaper.

[RainMaker]

Aren't they both $199?

[Lathum]

I have a Kindle fire, and while it is great for reading I would never want to use it as a tablet, way to clunky.

[MizzouRah]

I like my Kindle fire quite a bit, but if I had to choose between the two, I would buy the Nexus 7.

[Marc Vaughan]

7" is still more interesting. I'm not sure I'm sold on a Kindle at the $500 price mark. Even the 7" may take a backseat to the Nexus.

All that said, I still have no interest in owning a tablet of any form :).

Does the Nexus come with 4g without a monthly subscription? - thats one of the BIG draws for me and why I'm considering getting one of the new Kindles myself ...

[jeff061]

Don't think so, from what I can tell you'd only get the Fire for that data plan. But for me personally the data cap makes it a non-starter, interesting nonetheless.

[PraetorianX]

If I didn't have my iPad, I think I'd go with one of the 4g Fire's.

The data cap probably wouldn't be much of an issue unless you're wanting to watch movies or shows away from a wifi connection.

I would likely only use the 4g for web browsing and such when away from a wifi connection anyway, so it's not such a big deal.

I guess it just depends on how you would want to use it.

[saldana]

The Paperwhite be far more impressive. Every tech site is practically drooling over it. Incredible e-ink resolution, a light that barely gets in the way, and 8 weeks of battery life WITH the light on... wow!

Kindle Paperwhite - Touch Screen Ereader with Built-In Light (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007OZNZG0/ref=amb_link_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=gateway-center-column&pf_rd_r=1PS4PAP84MHE37HSKQRV&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1395759562&pf_rd_i=507846)

so based on the stuff that they have on the product website, the battery is 28 hours with the light on, and according to them, the 3G doesnt need a subscription of anykind, it is just part of the device and is automatically paid for by amazon

[cougarfreak]

so based on the stuff that they have on the product website, the battery is 28 hours with the light on, and according to them, the 3G doesnt need a subscription of anykind, it is just part of the device and is automatically paid for by amazon

I'm ordering the paper white. But I'm getting wif. The reason is, for me, I get a lot of library books on mine. With 3G you have to physically load them on, with wifi, they will come through the wifi. Practically everywhere I go, has wifi now, so no need for 3G for me.

[jeff061]

so based on the stuff that they have on the product website, the battery is 28 hours with the light on, and according to them, the 3G doesnt need a subscription of anykind, it is just part of the device and is automatically paid for by amazon

3G has never needed any subscription on the eReader Kindles. Thinking is the type of data the Kindlke uses is almost zero. You are not doing color web browsing, email or music/videos.

[PraetorianX]

so based on the stuff that they have on the product website, the battery is 28 hours with the light on, and according to them, the 3G doesnt need a subscription of anykind, it is just part of the device and is automatically paid for by amazon

3G Kindle doesn't require any data plan or anything, no. You can use it to download books anywhere you can get a signal. Can't do much else with the device though.

As for the battery, yes, 28 continuous hours with the light on. Depending on how much you use it you'll probably only need to charge it once a week at the most (and of course you can adjust the light for when you don't need it).

My 3rd gen Kindle 3G I only need to charge maybe once a month.

I'm ordering the paper white. But I'm getting wif. The reason is, for me, I get a lot of library books on mine. With 3G you have to physically load them on, with wifi, they will come through the wifi. Practically everywhere I go, has wifi now, so no need for 3G for me.

Or you could, say, I don't know, use the Kindle 3G's wifi? I've never had a problem downloading library books using it.

[jeff061]

3G does cost $60 more, which is 50% the cost of the unit itself. My Kindle isn't 3G, I don't really need it.

[saldana]

thanks for the suggestions about the 3G...i have never bought one of these before and am really thinking about this...does anyone know if you can just go to best buy and get one or do you have to order it from Amazon...they are saying they arent shipping them until the week of 10/8 (even though the release date is 10/1), and i would really like to have it for my week long trip to Europe (on the 8th)

[cougarfreak]

3G Kindle doesn't require any data plan or anything, no. You can use it to download books anywhere you can get a signal. Can't do much else with the device though.

As for the battery, yes, 28 continuous hours with the light on. Depending on how much you use it you'll probably only need to charge it once a week at the most (and of course you can adjust the light for when you don't need it).

My 3rd gen Kindle 3G I only need to charge maybe once a month.



Or you could, say, I don't know, use the Kindle 3G's wifi? I've never had a problem downloading library books using it.

So, the Paper White 3G comes with wifi as well? My K2 has 3G, but no wifi. And it, you know, won't let me use the 3G to get the library books. You have to use the wifi for that.

[ISiddiqui]

Ever since the K3 they added wi-fi, IIRC. Wi-fi is on every device, but some have 3G as well.

[PraetorianX]

thanks for the suggestions about the 3G...i have never bought one of these before and am really thinking about this...does anyone know if you can just go to best buy and get one or do you have to order it from Amazon...they are saying they arent shipping them until the week of 10/8 (even though the release date is 10/1), and i would really like to have it for my week long trip to Europe (on the 8th)

I don't know if they'll have them in stores or not. I pre-ordered my Paperwhite and my estimated delivery date is Oct. 11th.


As for if you want 3G or just regular wifi, it depends on how and when you use it really. There is no other difference between the two of them that I know of, except I think 3G is like maybe half an ounce heavier.

So the question really is if you think you'll actually get $60 worth of use out of the 3G. You can't really do any web browsing on the Kindle, so it'd likely only be for downloading books/mags. If you travel a lot or are often in (and likely to use your Kindle in) places that don't have free wireless and/or you don't have a wireless network in your home then 3G might a good option.

Otherwise, if you'll likely always have a nearby wifi hotspot, then save the $60 for books.

[Landshark44]

dumb question about the Kindle....

I purchased one for my wife for christmas, and put a book on it for her. (New Alex Cross)....

The book downloaded right away and is available to be "read", but i was never asked for any credit card info....

How did I pay for it?

[ISiddiqui]

From the account you used to buy the Kindle. It's linked to that account including the credit card you have on file with it.

You can change who it is registered to online, if you'd like.

[jeff061]

Is your credit card info stored on Amazon.com?

[Landshark44]

Is your credit card info stored on Amazon.com?

yes, i think it is....

but i didn't see anything under "order history". maybe it just didn't post, yet...

[Landshark44]

From the account you used to buy the Kindle. It's linked to that account including the credit card you have on file with it.

You can change who it is registered to online, if you'd like.

So, credit card i used to buy the Kindle is charged every time i make a purchase...?

[jeff061]

Credit card that is on file for the account the Kindle is registered to. Which it either automatically ties in with yours or maybe gives you the option to specify your wife during the ordering process, I forget.

[Scoobz0202]

So, credit card i used to buy the Kindle is charged every time i make a purchase...?

It's been awhile, but I think that is the case. When they ship it to you they pre-register it for that account. I THINK when you order it you could have it gifted or something for somebody else, but I'm not sure.

It shouldn't be too hard to change that, though. If not on the kindle it is probably somewhere in the Amazon.com account settings

[Landshark44]

yeah, weird. i purchased it today at best buy...

when i set it up, i didn't register it (wasn't asked to). and when i go to amazon, there is no record of the kindle or the purchase (book)...

curious to see how I'm billed. i'm sure it'll all clear up, i was just wondering. thanks, guys...

[tarcone]

Good info. We bought our daughters a fire from amazon. I could see them buying a bunch of stuff thinking they got it free. And our credit card bill crazy.

[jeff061]

Ah, not sure how the Best Buy process works.

[gstelmack]

On Amazon, you set up "1-click" settings for purchasing, and Kindle buying uses those.

[gstelmack]

Good info. We bought our daughters a fire from amazon. I could see them buying a bunch of stuff thinking they got it free. And our credit card bill crazy.

You can set up parental controls to prevent this.

[tarcone]

Cool. Thanks.

We just opened one of them to charge it. Found out you have to buy a charger separately. Nothing like getting nickel and dimed. Oh well. It will all be worth it.

[saldana]

Cool. Thanks.

We just opened one of them to charge it. Found out you have to buy a charger separately. Nothing like getting nickel and dimed. Oh well. It will all be worth it.

the paperwhite just charges with a USB cable...just plug it into any computer or any other micro cable...i use the same one for my phone and my kindle.

[ISiddiqui]

Yep... or you can plug in your phone charger into it (that's what I usually do).

edit: unless you have an iPhone... those Apple bastards just refuse to get with the micro-USB standard for phones.

[cougarfreak]

Cool. Thanks.

We just opened one of them to charge it. Found out you have to buy a charger separately. Nothing like getting nickel and dimed. Oh well. It will all be worth it.

Yeah, just use any phone charger to charge it. I use a phone charger on the paperwhite, no problems at all.

[MizzouRah]

I'm selling my Kindle Fire, $100. We just have too many iOS devices around the house, so I'm going with an ipad mini this Christmas.