Confessions of a Gadget Addict
I want an Amazon Kindle. Yes, I already own an iPad, iPod, iPhone, Sony Pocket Edition eReader, Blackberry and Macbook. So why in the heck would I want an Amazon Kindle?
Being the ebook junkie that I am, it’s only natural that I’d want the latest and greatest. I also like to try out different devices from different companies – a big reason why I switched from my iPhone to a Blackberry.
I use my Sony Pocket Edition and iPad for reading ebooks. The iPad is great. It beautifully renders ebooks and the Kindle App makes it a breeze to buy all the books I want. Yet the problems with eye strain keep it from being perfect. The Sony eReader has a step up on the iPad in this regard.
My biggest problem with the Sony Pocket Edition eReader is the Sony software that you are required to download onto your computer. The software is buggy, freezes and is a big CPU hog. I have written about Sony’s software in the past.
The second problem I have is the Sony eBookstore. They just don’t have the selection that Amazon has. Furthermore, you have to buy the ebook, it loads onto the ebook software, then you sync it to your device. Several steps are involved just to get one ebook onto your eReader. This is old technology, as far as ebooks are concerned.
With the Amazon Kindle, you buy a book on the Amazon website (no software!) and it syncs wirelessly to your device.
But, as I said before, I have the Amazon Kindle App on my iPad, so why would I want a separate Kindle device? As much as I love reading on my iPad, it’s hard on my eyes after reading for a long period of time. Reading at night only increases the eye strain.
Also, the iPad is loaded up with a lot of other goodies, all of which I love, but can be very distracting. When I want to read, I want to read. Though sometimes the call of checking my Facebook account or my email is just to strong to resist.
What Kindle would I buy? I’d seriously consider the $114 Kindle that serves up ads on the screensaver. Some of the ads are from third parties. Amazon sweetens the pot by throwing in special offers exclusively for Kindle owners.
The Amazon website gives examples of past offers, including: $10 for a $20 Amazon gift card, $1 for an album on Amazon’s MP3 store and $10 for $30 worth of products at the Amazon Denim or Swim Shops.
Those special offers alone can easily pay for the Kindle in savings alone. And selling a cheaper device that’s subsidized by ads is a unique step in the world of eReaders.
Will I buy an Amazon Kindle. Who knows? But if I do, I guarantee I’ll be writing a review here.
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