Kindle prepared for pre-Frankfurt UK launch
The Bookseller has heard from authoritative sources that Amazon.com will finally announce the arrival of its e-book device the Kindle in the UK next week. The news confirms the story first reported by The Bookseller in July that publishers were expecting an October release of the device. An announcement is now likely ahead of Frankfurt.
One source told The Bookseller: "The key things they needed to tie up have been tied up. The rumours I've heard are all saying next week." The source confirmed that publishers had signed non disclosure agreements so would not be able to comment on the record. But added: "I've heard it from multiple reliable sources. I think they want to avoid the general kerfuffle of Frankfurt."
Amazon has previously said that it would launch the e-book reader internationally, but has never divulged a timeline. Reports earlier in the year revealed that wireless development company Qualcomm was working on a wireless solution in the UK for the device. Qualcomm provides the whispernet wireless service for Amazon in the US that enables users to download e-books remotely to their Kindle.
One digital director said: "I think we are looking at October for launch." Another agreed: "Amazon is gathering a head of steam for launch."
Comments on this article
By jackson
I can confirm that this is what the publishing house I work for has been earmarking as the Kindle date since the summer, off the record, of course. What I haven't heard yet is the detail on Amazon proposed pricing of ebooks. Anyone know?30 Sep 09 10:12
By Mike
I would much rather be able to download books via my PC than have to rely on having a wireless (mobile?) service.01 Oct 09 15:30
By Walker
Does anyone know if following the launch a kindle bought previously in the US would work over here?05 Oct 09 09:30
By Jim Moores
@Walker: no it wouldn't, the UK version will have to use GSM networks so it'll have a different wireless module.06 Oct 09 11:07
