Amazon Revamps Kindle, Offers Wi-Fi Only Model

Amazon.com introduced its third generation Kindle ebook reader on Thursday with a redesigned body and the option to buy versions with Wi-Fi and 3G, or Wi-Fi only. The new models highlight Amazon.com’s plans to steer clear of Apple’s iPad and focus on the dedicated ebook reader market.

Amazon’s third generation Kindle

The new Kindle uses the same E-ink display as the new Kindle DX for faster refresh rates, and shares the same graphite colored shell color, too. It weighs 8.7 ounces thanks to a smaller form factor compared to the second generation Kindle, can run up to a month on a single battery charge, and it can store up to 3,500 books — substantially more than the 1,500 books the second generation Kindle could hold.

The third generation Kindle is priced in line with other dedicated ebook reader devices, too. The Wi-Fi plus 3G model costs US$189, and the Wi-Fi only model is priced at $139.

The new Kindle is available for pre-order now and will ship on August 27.