Can the Kindle Continue to Compete?

There are so many different ebook readers out there now. The Nook, Kobo, Sony, and iPad are all trying to hone in on the Amazon Kindle’s territory. It is a dog-eat-dog world when it comes to e-readers.

kindle unique

With all the new faces in the game, will Kindle continue to compete? I think so, and here is how -

  1. Cost – The Kindle still has one of the cheapest price point for e-readers out there, especially compared to the iPad.
  2. Free 3G – The no-cost 3G makes the Kindle enticing as a “one-off” cost. No monthly payment here!
  3. Uniqueness – Yes, there are other e-readers out there. However, none offer the same exact features. None of the others offer subscriptions to blogs and newspapers like the Kindle does, for example.
  4. Title availability – While the iPad and Nook have a number of titles available, the Sony reader and Kobo do not have the same volume.
  5. Brand recognition – While some of the other ebook readers are catching up to the Kindle, Kindle is still recognized as the premiere brand over Nook and Sony.
  6. Screen – The e-ink screen speaks for itself.
  7. Accessories – A whole industry has sprung up around Kindle lights, Kindle chargers, etc.

Many people thought the iPad would be “the Kindle killer.” However, the opposite has proven true, as they are different devices marketing for the most part to different kinds of users.

In my opinion, the Kindle is here to stay for a long time!

What do you think? Any features I missed? Let me know in the comments!

Click to read our full breakdown of the Kindle vs. iPad.

Also, check out my latest article comparing the Kindle DX vs. iPad over at Info Barrel.

Refurbished Kindles from Amazon!

Maybe you have been wanting to upgrade to that Kindle DX, but don’t want to shell out the cash! Or maybe, you really want a model that has 3G coverage, but can’t justify the extra cost.

Well, now Amazon might just have a solution for you – Refurbished Kindles. They are redone by Amazon and at a great cost.

For the Kindle DX it is only $289. For the 3G Kindle 2, it is only $159. Not bad compared to $379 and $189, respectively.

However, they are not new, so you might have some concerns about quality.

What do you think? Would you buy a refurbished Kindle? Let us know in the comments!

Diane Von Furstenberg Kindle Covers Are Stunning

Looking for a devilishly stunning Kindle cover for your Amazon ebook reader, then have a look at the newly released Diane Von Furstenberg Kindle covers.

diane von furstenberg kindle cover

These are luxurious without the guilt, as three of the models are made with canvas and a soft but durable twill interior. Nice! Who needs leather? Not I. The covers are made specifically for the Kindle 2 and with Furstenberg’s touch, will surely add a splash of glamor to your digital reader.

With a pink twill interior and a signature shiny gold DVF toggle, this Diane Von Furstenberg Kindle cover is perfect for the ladies!

Site description:

  • Designed by Diane von Furstenberg exclusively for 6″ Display, Latest Generation Kindle
  • Cotton canvas spotted cat denim blue print cover
  • Twill blend interior with business card holders
  • Kindle-compatible hinge holds device in place

via Amazon

Free Kindle 2 Screensaver Set

Marc who runs E Read Now, a blog dedicated to ebook readers has put out a nice freebie for Kindle 2 owners. Don’t fret over the default screensavers on your Kindle reader, download this nice free Kindle screensaver set from Marc and upload them via the included hack.

kindle 2 screensaver

This lovely set includes gorgeous Colorado landscapes. Have a look by going to e Read Now and scoring some free Kindle screensavers.

You must sign up to his email newsletter receive the freebie, but it’s quite worth it.

*Please note that the Kindle Hack is to be used at your own discretion, as i’ve read stories that by using it you’re essentially voiding your Kindle warranty. So just keep this in mind. Hopefully soon Amazon will make it easier and allow Kindle owners to upload their own screensavers, as its kind of silly not to.

Kindle Charger, Where To Find A Replacement

kindle charger

Did you lose or misplace the original Kindle charger that came with your digital reader? Not to worry, as finding a replacement is a click away.

If you didn’t lose or misplace your Kindle Charger, but want an extra for the car or office, trusted online retailer Amazon has one for less than $20.  The small and portable charger (which is pictured above) is the wall AC charger which works on both the Kindle 2 and Kindle DX.

Also in the box are two connectors for either foreign or domestic charging.

available via Amazon

How To Replace The Battery On A Kindle 2

Whether you received the Amazon Kindle 2 as a gift this year or treated yourself to the wireless digital reader, at some point in the future you will want or need to replace the battery.

But how?

Great question and that is what we are here for. We will start by letting you know that on the Kindle 2 the battery is not replaceable (or more aptly put) it can’t be removed. For some unknown reason (some speculate to make it lighter) Amazon decided to keep the Kindle battery a thing of mystery.

However all is not lost, as you can depending on your circumstance, ask for a replacement KINDLE. The device itself.

As one would imagine, there are stipulations and they are as follows. You can request a replacement Kindle if:

  • the device is still under warranty
  • the device is not operable

So not entirely an easy replacement, but if you meet the requirements above you just might score a brand new Kindle. Be sure to check your warranty and give Amazon a call or send off an email support query.

Or

You can bypass Amazon altogether and purchase a third-party battery made for the Kindle 2, such as the one sold on Amazon from BatteryBob.com. However this can null and void your warranty and if anything should happen to your beloved Kindle while you’re trying to DIY, you could be SOL.

Your call.