Amazon.com unleashed new e-reader software Thursday that enables selected BlackBerry handsets from Research In Motion to access and read e-books directly on mobile devices based in the United States. Called Kindle for BlackBerry, the free beta app is available for download from the world’s largest online retailer.
Amazon’s latest software launch places the emphasis on dramatically boosting the number of individuals who can directly access the retailer’s e-book offerings. Another big benefit comes from the fact that Amazon does not have to provide free wireless access to BlackBerry subscribers, who already have cellular connections.
Since Amazon’s launch of its popular Kindle for iPhone app last year, customers have been asking the online retailer to bring a similar experience to the BlackBerry, noted Amazon Kindle Vice President Ian Freed.
“Kindle for BlackBerry is a great way for customers to continue reading their current book wherever they are — in between meetings, at the grocery store or waiting in the doctor’s office,” Freed said.
Cross-Platform Access
Compatible with BlackBerry Bold (9000, 9700), Curve (8520, 8900), Storm (9530, 9550) and Tour (9630) smartphones, Kindle for BlackBerry harnesses the power of Amazon’s homegrown Whispersync technology, which both saves and synchronizes the customer’s bookmarks across devices such as the Kindle, Kindle DX, iPhone, iPod touch, PC, and BlackBerry. Whispersync also is expected to arrive on the Mac and iPad shortly, Amazon said.
Wireless subscribers who download Amazon’s free beta app to their BlackBerry handsets will have access to more than 420,000 Kindle books, including New York Times bestsellers as well as the latest releases. Users also will have direct access to free content and previews as well as their previously purchased titles, which are stored on Amazon’s servers.
Additionally, the free beta app makes it possible for customers to access the Amazon Kindle Store and download titles directly…