Whilst the very first Kindle was launched, it brought about a revolution in the concept of reading, since this tiny and ultra-portable device allowed its users to acquire and read their favorite literature (be it a novel or a magazine) wherever they were, with no connection to a computer. The Kindle 2, launched in February 2009, builds on this idea, but brings in this area some very remarkable innovations, while maintaining those features that made the first model so popular.

The first enhancement in the Kindle 2 and at the same time, the most important feature is associated to its display. Consequently, the device comes packed with a 6-inch E-Ink electronic paper display to facilitate a 600 x 800 pixel resolution at 167 ppi, 16-level gray scale. Furthermore, the form dynamic is more slimmer and more slender than the first Kindle, with the latter versions measuring 8 x 5.3 x 0.36 inches, at a weight of around 10.2 ounces or 0.3 kg.

Additionally, the control systems have also been modified, with the Kindle 2 featuring a redesigned keyboard, also a 5-way control button that can be used for either browsing through the pages of the books or magazines that the individual is reading or to simply accesses the various options of the device. Speaking of options, it's also very fascinating to make a note of the fact that Kindle 2 allows users to essentially search the definition of any word within its built-in New Oxford American Dictionary. Furthermore, they can also search for precise vocabulary or phrases on Wikipedia, as well as the entire Internet.

An added innovation implemented in the Kindle 2 is the Whispersync technology. This allows its users to seamlessly switch back and forth between their several Kindle devices while keeping the reading location synchronized. Therefore, whether they are reading from the Kindle 2 or a mobile phone, they can simply pick up reading exactly where they left off.

The Kindle 2 stores 2GB of memory, sufficient to store up to 1500 eBooks. As for battery life, the eBook reader provides up to 4 days of reading after a single charge. Of course, if you switch off the wireless module, the battery life will noticeably amplify.

The Kindle 2 provides an extensive file compatibility catalog, including the following formats: TXT, MP3, Kindle (AZW), Audible (formats 4, unshielded MOBI, Audible Enhanced (AAX)), PRC natively; PDF, HTML, JPEG, DOC, GIF, PNG, BMP through conversion. If you are wondering what the Audible and MP3 formats have to do with this, I ought to point out that the new Kindle essentially comes packed with built-in stereo speakers and text-to-speech technology, the device being essentially able to “read” to the user.

And last but not least, Allow me to take a look at the connectivity options. This device relies Heavily on the EVDO modem with fallback to 1xRTT that uses the Amazon Whispernet to provide U.S wireless coverage via Sprint's 3G high-speed data network. Nonetheless, the reader also sports a USB 2.0 port, used for either charging the battery or for connecting to a PC or Mac.

Selling for greater than $360 previously, the Kindle 2 is at present on sale for $259.00 on Amazon.

Buenas noticias! For international readers! Starting from October 19, 2009 the Kindle will be accessible for the first time ever for international orders. Pre-order now for only $279.00 and be one of the first to get your Kindle worldwide!

Pros

• a huge library of 1500 e-books
• wireless shopping and delivery
• online backup of purchased books
• free wireless internet access
• supports most non-Amazon content
• long battery life

Cons

• web browser is limited
• windows-only software required for Audible set-up (could be a problem for Mac users)
  
• newspapers and magazines lack sidebars and infographics