CNet's Crave Blog is reporting that Kindle 2.0 ships naked, without a cover. Should users want to buy the Amazon cover, the cost is reported to be $30. When viewed in light of the fact that Amazon's not lowering the price for Kindle 2.0, this seems a bit unfriendly.
What do you think? Is it a misstep on Amazon's part to charge separately for the Kindle 2.0 cover?
8 comments:
Any word on whether it's coming to Europe? I'm a Canadian moving to Geneva and am wondering if I should just get the US version and deal with downloading via USB or if there is some sort of Europe version that is coming that I should wait for?
What do you think?
ps: great blog!
@rahafharfoush
No, it's not a mistake. I'd rather choose my own cover than essentially pay for one I don't like and won't use by having it "included."
I promptly went out and bought my own cover for the Kindle 1, so it doesn't bother me.
I do, however, think it would be wise for them to ship with some sort of screen protecting cover.
Perhaps another page out of the iPod playbook? Remember the hubbub when Apple stopped including a dock with every iPod?
I agree that it seems unfriendly. E-paper screens can get damaged (I've had it happen to an iRex DR1000) and need some protection. Mind you, iRex don't supply covers for their devices either.
I don't understand all the complaint over the cost...Amazon has released a new version of a great device and they kept the price the same.
When Apple or any other manufacturer releases a new device with great new features they usually 'increase' the price!
And this time we can pick the cover cause frankly the previous one was terrible. I hope Moleskin does one, or Hardcraft!
Rahaf:
I don't know if Amazon will be releasing the Kindle outside of the U.S. I'm trying to arrange an interview with someone at Amazon to discuss Kindle 2.0 and beyond, so I'll be sure to ask.
Monitoring Twitter on the day of launch, it was clear that many, many people internationally want a Kindle of their own!
Tyler
If Amazon continues the generous return policy they may be cutting their own throat. W/out a cover, they'll have more people with broken kindles to return.
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