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Amazon Releases New Kindle Software

Posted on: Wednesday, 11 November 2009, 06:20 CST

Amazon released free software on Tuesday that will allow people to read its Kindle books on their computers.

The Kindle for PC application syncs with Amazon's e-reader so that users can switch from one to the other without losing track of which page they were on.

"Kindle for PC is the perfect companion application for customers who own a Kindle or Kindle DX," said Amazon vice president Ian Freed.

"Kindle for PC is also a great way for people around the world to access a huge selection from the Kindle Store and read the most popular books of today even if they don't yet have a Kindle."

Amazon e-books can be read on Apple's iPhone or iPod Touch devices as well.  There are 360,000 digitized books available at the Kindle online store.

The new application is available for free in over 100 countries at its website.

The new software allows people to read books in color, which has sparked speculation that a Kindle device capable of graphics in color is on its way.

Intel unveiled its own handheld device designed for people with vision or reading difficulties.

The Intel Reader is about the size of a paperback book and converts standard size text into a digital format, then automatically reads it aloud.  The device scans words using a built-in camera.

"As someone who is part of this dyslexic community, I am thrilled to be able to help level the playing field for people who, like me, do not have easy access to the printed word," said Intel researcher Ben Foss.

"Feelings of loneliness are often the experience of not being able to read easily. We hope to open the doors for people in these communities."

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On the Net:

• Kindle for PC

Source: RedOrbit Staff & Wire Reports

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