With the announcement of a Kindle Fire 2 release date, will Amazon also bring an end to its original e-reader? It's possible according to one report, which speculates that the company will introduce a completely new line of color e-readers with the Fire sequel's release.
A recent report at Tom's Guide discusses the fact that color and multi-touch screens could be taking over the Kindle line. Those who own any of the original and somewhat archaic ink e-readers may want to consider an upgrade, or holding on to a collector's item device which may be phased out.
As of right now Amazon has five different models in its Kindle lineup including the baseline model, the Touch, the Keyboard 3G, the DX, and its small tablet, the Kindle Fire. Tom's Guide says that E Ink Holdings will unveil color EPD products in the near future, which could be adopted by Amazon. The site adds:
"So far there's no indication that Amazon plans to kill off its base Kindle non-touch reader, but it's a distinct possibility with new Kindle Fire tablet on the horizon."
The website also notes that insiders believe a multi-touch capacitive touch panel will be provided for the new line of Kindle devices by TPK Holding. That would mean doing away with the infrared touch panels that mono-color Touch devices used. This sounds like the smart way for Amazon to keep up with the current technologies on the market which consist of fancier handheld tablets and e-readers such as the iPad and Nook.
The big news should arrive sometime in the second half of this year, once Amazon finally reveals the Kindle Fire 2 release date, name, price, and specs. It's expected they'll add in cameras, GPS, volume buttons, a better processor, and a bigger display. With that in mind, the company seems like it is making big moves to continue competing with the likes of Apple and Samsung tablets. Will it be enough to increase sales and their share of the market though?
Are you waiting to purchase a new Kindle, or the new Fire tablet device? Which features are you most looking for it to have?
(Image Source: Amazon.com)






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