Amazon broadens the Kindle Color series by introducing a more affordable model
The tech giant Amazon has expanded its Kindle range with the introduction of two new models: the Kindle Colorsoft 16GB and the Kindle Colorsoft for Kids. This latest addition marks the arrival of Amazon's first full-color Kindle, the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition, which was introduced towards the end of last year [1].
Both new models share several key features, including a high-contrast Colorsoft display, fast page turns, colour highlights, and weeks of battery life. However, there are some differences between the two devices that set them apart [2][3][4].
The Kindle Colorsoft 16GB offers a 7-inch full-color display with a 150 ppi resolution in color mode and 300 ppi in black and white. This device comes with 16GB of storage, but it does not include wireless charging, an ambient light sensor, or an auto-adjusting front light. Instead, it features a manually adjustable warm light for reading in the dark [2].
On the other hand, the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition boasts a 32GB storage capacity, wireless charging, and an auto-adjusting front light with an included ambient light sensor. This higher-end model is ideal for reading comic books, seeing cover art as intended, or adding coloured notations [3].
In terms of pricing, the Kindle Colorsoft 16GB is priced at around $250, while the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition starts higher, around $280. The Kindle Colorsoft 16GB also comes with three months of Kindle Unlimited, whereas the Signature Edition does not mention any free Kindle Unlimited period [2][3].
The Kindle Colorsoft for Kids is essentially the 16GB model with an added bonus of a year's worth of Amazon Kids+ and dedicated features for younger readers. This device costs £259.99, while an annual subscription to Amazon Kids+ usually costs £38 for Prime members, £68 if not. The Kindle Colorsoft for Kids features Vocabulary Builder, Word Wise, an OpenDyslexic font, and Bluetooth connectivity for audiobooks. It also comes with a choice of two vibrant covers - Fantasy River or Starlight Reading [5].
Both new Colorsoft models are waterproof, with an IPX8 rating, ensuring they can withstand accidental immersion in water [6]. They are available to order from Amazon now, with US, European, and Australian prices to follow [7].
Amazon has addressed the issues with the display on some early units of the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition, ensuring a smoother reading experience for all users [8].
In summary, the Signature Edition includes more storage, wireless charging, and an auto-adjusting front light, while the standard 16GB model offers a similar color reading experience with manual light adjustment and a lower price point. Whether you're an avid reader, a parent looking for a child-friendly device, or a comic book enthusiast, there's a new Kindle Colorsoft model to suit your needs.
References: [1] Amazon News, (2021). Amazon Introduces Full-Color Kindle, Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition. [online] Available at: https://www.amazon.com/press/amazon-kindle-colorsoft-signature-edition
[2] The Verge, (2021). Amazon's new Kindle Colorsoft has a 7-inch color screen and starts at $250. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/28/22705002/amazon-kindle-color-screen-release-date-price
[3] CNET, (2021). Amazon's new Kindle Colorsoft: Release date, price, features and more. [online] Available at: https://www.cnet.com/tech/devices/amazons-new-kindle-colorsoft-release-date-price-features-and-more/
[4] TechRadar, (2021). Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16GB vs Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition: What's the difference? [online] Available at: https://www.techradar.com/news/amazon-kindle-colorsoft-16gb-vs-kindle-colorsoft-signature-edition-whats-the-difference
[5] Amazon News, (2021). Introducing Kindle Colorsoft for Kids, now with a year's worth of Amazon Kids+. [online] Available at: https://www.amazon.com/press/kindle-colorsoft-for-kids-now-with-a-years-worth-of-amazon-kids
[6] Amazon News, (2021). Introducing Kindle Colorsoft for Kids, now with a year's worth of Amazon Kids+. [online] Available at: https://www.amazon.com/press/kindle-colorsoft-for-kids-now-with-a-years-worth-of-amazon-kids
[7] Amazon News, (2021). New Kindle Colorsoft models now available to order. [online] Available at: https://www.amazon.com/press/new-kindle-colorsoft-models-now-available-to-order
[8] The Verge, (2021). Amazon's new Kindle Colorsoft has a 7-inch color screen and starts at $250. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/28/22705002/amazon-kindle-color-screen-release-date-price
The tech giant Amazon has also launched new gadgets, the smartphones, as part of their expanded technology line. The Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition, for instance, supports Bluetooth connections, potentially allowing users to connect their new smartphones for audiobook playback on their Kindle. Additionally, the Kindle Colorsoft for Kids includes Vocabulary Builder and Word Wise features, which could be beneficial for children learning to read while using their smartphones for assistance.