Kindle on the iPhone The Real Game Changer?

by Scott Jangro on 04 March 2009

kindle.pngI just installed the Kindle iPhone app and all I can say is, wow.

I’ve owned an Amazon Kindle for over a year now. I back-ordered it last Christmas and got it in January 2008, and it has been a great gadget to have and it’s been good for a lot of reading that I probably wouldn’t have otherwise done.

I did agree with Robert Scoble’s strong criticisms of the design — In a word, crap. Amazon has recently started shipping their second generation Kindle which looks like they’ve addressed a lot of the design flaws, like the next/prev page buttons covering the entire sides of the device.

I’ve been toying with the idea of getting the new one, but Amazon just launched their iPhone app, and at first glance, I think I might actually enjoy reading on the iPhone better. Is it possible? Maybe so.

Here’s what it has going for it

  • I always have it with me.
  • It’s backlit
  • The interface is nicer. Just swipe the screen to turn the page.

Potential Downfalls

  • I’ve heard that it may be difficult to read in bright sunlight
  • Reading could be tough on the battery.

I’m traveling in the next few weeks and I’ll really be able to give it a workout.

One might ask why Amazon would undercut Kindle sales with a free iPhone app. I think I read somewhere that they really don’t make much money on the device. Add in the wireless fees and that becomes plausible. Their big money comes with the book sales and the virtually zero cost to deliver, especially now that it’s delivered on AT&T’s dime.

Game changer!

Here are a few screenshots:

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  • I love my Kindle and I always bring it with me wherever I go. I'm fond of reading ebooks in my Kindle. Anyway, I didn't know that there's a Kindle iPhone app. I have an iPhone and I might going to try this app, too!
  • @Henry, there are a lot of apps that have a practical use and are not just for fun. So what are you going to do with them? Use them when you need them. This one let's you read books on your cellphone, it's useful, not just cool.
  • Henry
    I dont understand the fasincation with all these Apple apps. Sure theyre kinda cool ...for the first 2 minutes....but when the novelty has worn off, what are you gonna do with them??:) :)
  • For me the issue with using an iPhone is with my eyes. Such a small screen! My eyes get strained easily so looks like the app won't be for us all unfortunately.
  • Don't mind the battery, what about your eyes? Kindle is so great because unlike normal screens it doesn't hurt your eyes if you read. readin it on iphone would be missing the point completely.
  • i use it everyday and it kinda rock in free time..no smoking.. only gaming..
  • Could this finally be the step that disintermediates the book publishers?
  • I agree that the iPhone would be a companion to the Kindle. I view it like having a netbook as well as a laptop or desktop computer with the iPhone being like the netbook for reading. I think it would also be great if you forget your kindle since you generally never forget your phone!
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