Amazon Launches Expensive Ebook Reader
The Amazon Kindle ebook reader is now available. The device is $399, which is $200 - $300 too much to ever be a huge success. A lot of the high cost likely went into the built-in and free wireless connectivity to the bookstore (via EVDO — the same technology some cell phones use). While that’s obviously a cool feature (really cool!), I think it should be optional. Many of us would be happy to buy our books via wi-fi or even through a computer sync — especially if it means saving $100 or more. Most books are $9.99, which is pretty reasonable for hardbacks, but crazy for books currently available in mass market paperback.
The technology here is impressive, but the entry price is just too high. I’m surprised Amazon isn’t subsidizing the cost more, as Audible.com does sometimes with audio book devices. For now, I’ll stick to reading books on my smart phone.
Read the CNet feature for more on the Kindle.
Visit the Kindle page on Amazon.com.
Update: Forgot to mention — as I understand it, you can read blogs on your kindle, “for as little as $.99 per month.” Is that per blog? I guess you’re really paying for the EVDO connection here, but I can’t see people paying a buck a month for access to their favorite free blog.
