Both Kindle models use the same E Ink screens as the previous generation (and the DX version), though Amazon claims the refresh rate (page-turn speed) has been improved by 20%, while contrast is improved by 50% to match the DX. They're also 21% smaller and 15% lighter, and feature an expanded 4 GB of internal storage. The battery life has been improved, and according to Amazon the Kindles can last up to a month with the wireless networking turned off and up to 10 days with the radio enabled. The keyboard layout is also tweaked slightly, and has a larger directional pad. Finally, the new Kindles will be available in two colors: the standard white version and a darker "graphite."
The Kindle continues to be monochrome, and it doesn't look likely that Amazon will add a color display to the Kindle in the near future. and increasing the screen's refresh rate to support animation or video isn't a high priority. Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos told the Wall Street Journal, "For the vast majority of books, adding video and animation is not going to be helpful. It is distracting rather than enhancing. You are not going to improve Hemingway by adding video snippets."
Do you own a Kindle or other e-book reader? If not, is $139 cheap enough for you to jump on board?
