Original Kindle Ebook Reader – 1st generation

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Kindle Amazons Original Wireless Reading Device 1st generation

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

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars It sucks
Im from Australia and it sucks that they don’t send these there.

Because i travel alot with my family and like to read this would be the best item for me, but they don’t send it where i live. again – IT SUCKS!

1 Star Questionable life span
I purchased my Kindle in April 2008 and loved it. It had it’s little foibles, and my husband complained when we received our credit card bill every month, but for an avid reader like me, it was great. Fast forward a year and a half… After sitting in my bedroom drawer for a couple of weeks, I pulled it out. The screen was blank, so I charged it. When I then went to read, the silver scroll bar on the side wasn’t there. I did a couple of hard resets to no avail, and then called customer service. Apparently, they have no ideas other than the hard reset.

Even though I bought it at full-price (I believe it was still $499 when I bought it), and I’ve spent quite a bit on books ($555 from Jan 1 to Sep 1 of this year alone), the only option they gave me was to spend an additional $99 to exchange mine for a refurbished one. So, right now I have probably $2k invested in a 1.5 year old doorstop. I did a web search on Kindle reviews, and found very quickly that there are a number of customers in this same boat. I would just recommend that buyers are aware that to continue to access your purchases (i.e., books and magazines) you have to be ready to replace your device at regular intervals.

5 Stars Love that Kindle
This is a second Kindle in the family. We now have 2 first generation Kindles and love them both, equally.

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