Kindle Paperwhite 4 Launched: 4G, Waterproof, Bluetooth Features Highlighted
As already anticipated, Amazon has introduced the Kindle Paperwhite 4 (10th generation) today. The new eBook reader replaces the predecessor after three years and brings numerous changes, many of which were expected ahead of time.
Let’s start with the display: The 6-inch screen continues to use E-Ink Carta technology. The resolution is 1448×1072 pixels, resulting in the well-known pixel density of 300 ppi.
The number of LEDs used for the display’s front lighting has changed. Now 5 LEDs are used, providing even more uniform illumination (previously 4 LEDs).
Flat Front and Water Protection
An initially not-so-noticeable change is the new front. At first glance, the Kindle Paperwhite 4 looks like the older model, but upon closer inspection, it’s clear that the new Paperwhite has a flat front casing.
In doing so, it follows the Kindle Oasis and the recently discontinued Kindle Voyage.
The proportions remain almost unchanged, so both the appearance and the dimensions of 167 x 116 x 8.18 mm are close to the predecessor (169 x 117 x 9.1 mm). The most noticeable difference in handling is likely the reduced thickness – along with the weight being about 20 grams lighter (182 grams).
The Kindle Paperwhite 4 now also includes built-in water protection, rated at IPX8. This means the eReader can withstand submersion in up to 2 meters of water for up to 60 minutes without damage.
More Kindle Paperwhite Versions
The model variants have also changed. There are now five different Kindle Paperwhite versions:
- Kindle Paperwhite 8 GB (with and without special offers)
- Kindle Paperwhite 32 GB (with and without special offers)
- Kindle Paperwhite 4G 32 GB (without special offers)
This brings us to the next new feature: The new Paperwhite now has a built-in LTE connection instead of the 3G module used for years. This provides lower latency and faster page loading in the shop. According to Amazon, audiobooks cannot be downloaded over the 4G connection, so you’ll still need a Wi-Fi connection for that.
The Kindle Paperwhite 4G is only available with 32 GB of storage and without special offers.
The base version of the Kindle Paperwhite 4 also has more space now with 8 GB of storage, compared to the Paperwhite 3. This is due to the now included Audible support. This feature is also known from the Kindle Oasis and entry-level Kindle. It allows audiobooks to be enjoyed on the eBook reader, syncing your reading progress when switching between media, so you can always resume at the right spot.
Audio output occurs via a wireless Bluetooth connection, meaning you’ll need headphones or external speakers, among other things. This capability also allows not only for listening to audiobooks but also using VoiceView, a feature that enables people with visual impairments to operate the Kindle.
Availability
Some adjustments were also made to the software. The home screen has been redesigned to offer better reading suggestions based on previous reading history. Additionally, there’s now the option to save your own reading profiles with font, font thickness, and text alignment settings.
While the software will be available tomorrow for the Kindle Paperwhite 2 and newer models, those interested in the Paperwhite 4 will have to wait a bit longer. Pre-orders have already begun, with deliveries starting on November 7, 2018:
- Kindle Paperwhite 8 GB with special offers 119.99 Euro
- Kindle Paperwhite 8 GB without special offers 139.99 Euro
- Kindle Paperwhite 32 GB with special offers 149.99 Euro
- Kindle Paperwhite 32 GB without special offers 169.99 Euro
- Kindle Paperwhite 4G 32 GB without special offers 229.99 Euro
Still No Blue Light Reduction
With the introduction of the Kindle Paperwhite 4, basically all speculations that surfaced beforehand are confirmed. Amazon has enhanced its latest edition with an audiobook function and added water protection as a distinctive feature in this segment (300 ppi for 120 euros).
The flat front casing was somewhat expected due to last year’s leak (which has now been proven correct) and also because of the recent discontinuation of the Kindle Voyage.
Some potential buyers might feel a bit disappointed, though not completely surprised, by the lack of blue light reduction. Built-in night light remains something reserved for the competition, which seems unusual given the now vast portfolio of competitors.
The decision might also be related to intentions to first implement this feature in the high-end segment. Therefore, one might expect at least by 2019 a Kindle Oasis 3 featuring such an option.
