But an integrated light isn’t the only thing that’s been improved in the Paperwhite. The e-reader also includes a much higher resolution screen – 62% more pixels to be exact. That makes text much clearer and sharper, and it just looks better. Web browsing via the experimental browser should also be that much better.
Even with an upgraded screen and the backlight on, the Paperwhite needs to be charged only rarely. Amazon are quoting battery life of 8 weeks – several orders of magnitude better than tablets like the iPad or Nexus 7.
The Paperwhite has also seen upgrades to its software. There are new hand-tuned Kindle fonts with six different styles and eight different sizes, so you can find the font that fits you. There’s a Time To Read feature which will let you know when you’ll get to the end of the next chapter based on your reading speed.
Of course, with a Kindle you get access to the massive Kindle library, including 650,000 books for £3.99 or less and 200,000 Kindle exclusives. Amazon have long made their name as a book company, and they don’t disappoint here.
The Paperwhite looks like the best Kindle e-reader ever – and that’s an impressive feat, given the series’ success.
The Paperwhite is available in Wi-Fi and 3G variants, with models pre-ordered now shipping later this month. Of course, we’re ready with a range of Kindle Paperwhite accessories and Kindle Paperwhite cases and we’ll show you more of these in blog posts to come.
Thanks for reading and be sure to let us know what you think of the Paperwhite in the comments below.