Amazon’s popular e-book reader Kindle received a second iteration this week with the release of the Kindle 2, with vastly upgraded features in a more slick package. At just 1/3 inches thick and 10.2 ounces, the device is no more hefty than a small magazine, and with wireless 3G built-in, allows for rapid-fire downloads anywhere with a 3G signal, with - this is important - no monthly fees or service plans. The new Kindle also has an improved screen with 16 shades of gray, 25% longer battery life, increased storage to hold over 1,500 titles, a faster processor to allow for faster page turns, and a new text-to-speech feature that can read aloud any text.

It’s also important to note that without the operating costs associated with publishing a physical book, prices on ebook files are lower - Amazon lists their Best Sellers and New Releases at $9.99, with older titles even cheaper. With a library of over 240,000 titles that’s continuously increasing, the Kindle 2 is definitely a triumphant declaration that ebook readers are here to stay, and are closer to achieving the dream of the ultimate portable reading device - yours for $359.
 
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