A post on the Mobileread forums pointed me to an Amazon announcement posted today about a new firmware (software) update for the Kindle and Kindle DX. Based on the announcement, the update will go to a select group of beta testers first, and then move out to all Kindle users by late May 2010.
New Firmware Features Include:
- Collections: Organize your books and documents into one or more collections. Sounds like some sort of “tag” implementation to me although it could be a way to sort your books and other materials by folder – something users have asked for repeatedly.
- PDF Pan and Zoom: Zoom into PDFs and pan around to easily view small print and detailed tables or graphics. - This will be a nice addition. PDF viewing on the Kindle before this was less than ideal.
- Password Protection: Password protect your Kindle when you're not using it – I’m not sure how many have asked for this one, but I guess some will find it useful.
- More Fonts & Improved Clarity: Enjoy two new larger font sizes and sharper fonts for an even more comfortable reading experience – A welcome addition. The more fonts and size options the better.
- Facebook & Twitter Posts: Share book passages with friends on Facebook and Twitter directly from your Kindle. – I’m not so sure how many Kindle owners will use this, but hey, why not.
- Popular Highlights: See what the Kindle community thinks are the most interesting passages in the books you're reading – This one sounds interesting. I’ll have to try it out to know if its useful or not though.
The official Amazon announcement is at Amazon.com. I’m hoping we’ll see a price reduction as the next big news item from Amazon.
