Amazon is obviously looking to enhance its Kindle e-book reader range with a touchscreen model, maybe in an attempt to give the Apple iPad a run for its money, as it has just purchased touch screen start-up company Touchco.
Touchco has developed interpolating force-sensitive resistance technology that can be used in transparent, flexible, and pressure-sensitive touch screens, which we could see in the Kindle in the not-too-distant future.
And the technology is reasonably inexpensive to produce, costing as little as $10 per square foot, which could mean that Amazon would be able to deliver a touch screen-enabled Kindle at a low price.
The Competitive Landscape
If Amazon wants to compete with the Apple iPad, they will probably have to do a little more than just develop touch screen-enabled versions of their existing Kindle models. The iPad, with its multifunctional capabilities, has set a high bar in the tablet market. It offers not only e-book reading but also web browsing, gaming, and a plethora of apps that cater to various needs. Therefore, Amazon might need to consider integrating more features into their Kindle devices to make them more versatile and appealing to a broader audience.
For instance, adding multimedia capabilities such as video playback, music streaming, and even basic productivity tools like note-taking and calendar functions could make the Kindle a more attractive option. Additionally, enhancing the device’s connectivity options, such as including Wi-Fi and cellular capabilities, could also be a significant step forward.
Potential for Color Displays
It will be interesting to see what Amazon comes up with and whether Amazon will introduce color versions of the Amazon Kindle that will be capable of more functions than reading e-books. The current Kindle models primarily use E Ink technology, which is excellent for reading as it mimics the appearance of ink on paper and is easy on the eyes. However, this technology is limited to grayscale displays.
Introducing color E Ink or other color display technologies could open up new possibilities for the Kindle. For example, color displays would enhance the reading experience for graphic novels, magazines, and children’s books. It could also make the device more suitable for educational purposes, where color diagrams and illustrations are often essential.
Moreover, a color display could pave the way for more interactive content, such as educational apps and games, making the Kindle a more versatile device for both entertainment and learning.
Future Prospects
The acquisition of Touchco indicates that Amazon is serious about innovating and staying competitive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. By integrating advanced touch screen technology, Amazon could potentially revolutionize the e-reader market once again, just as it did with the original Kindle.
Furthermore, the low production cost of Touchco’s technology could allow Amazon to offer these advanced features at a competitive price point, making high-quality e-readers accessible to a broader audience. This could be particularly beneficial in emerging markets, where affordability is a key factor in technology adoption.
In conclusion, while the acquisition of Touchco is a significant step forward, it is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly compete with the likes of the Apple iPad, Amazon will need to continue innovating and expanding the capabilities of its Kindle devices. Whether through enhanced multimedia features, color displays, or other technological advancements, the future of the Kindle looks promising and full of potential.
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