The Kindle 2
As many of you may be aware, the Library at Bath Spa University bought two eBook readers last month. Library staff are being introduced to the readers, who are then encouraged to feedback via a questionnaire on how useful the technology will be for students and staff at the University.
However the more I play with the Sony PRS-505, the more I get distracted by all the talk surrounding the Kindle eBook reader. The PRS-505 has impressed me; the battery life is superb and the device can handle a number of document formats. The screen is comfortable to look at and overall the device is robust and attractive.
However I think the Kindle could could really be the product that could revolutionise the eBook market in the UK, providing real advantages beyond simply being able to store a large number of books on one device. Increasingly it is products that combine a number of technologies that have become successful, a ‘mash-up’ of services that harnesses the Web 2.0 culture.
The Kindle appears to hit the nail on the head: a WIFI/3G connection which allows to users to purchase books without connecting to a computer, removing the need to download software you didn’t want in the first place. Users are able to subscribe to RSS feeds freely, as well as purchase newspapers and magazines over the device.
This product brings eBook readers out of the category of the ‘gadget’, and actually provides technology that will actually make a difference to the culture of its users. Imagine waking up in the morning to find the Guardian has already been downloaded and available for you to read, as well as alerts to blog updates. You read a book review which interests you, pick up the Kindle and read it.
The major hold-up for potential UK Kindle users is the mobile networks. In America users pay a flat fee for the Kindle and nothing more; the 3G connection is provided free by the mobile network. This is clearly highly complex for Europe, which contains many networks spanning many countries. Amazon has to strike a deal with as many of these networks as they can before they can release the Kindle – I do not envy this task!
#1 by Zak Mensah on April 7th, 2009
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The Kindle also will no doubt launch in Europe with massive marketing which should/will get it flying off the shelf if the price point is also agreeable. I will be released as a “totally new device” and the hype alone should give it a push for the non tech crowd. Its the type of device I need for mornings and trips where the laptop is overkill.
Im looking forward to it!
#2 by Candie on April 27th, 2009
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Well written article.
#3 by Kindle Accessories on June 3rd, 2009
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I would love to write and say what a great job you did on this, as you have put a lot of work into it.