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Amazon debuts waterproof Kindle for better reading in the bath

SAN FRANCISO — Amazon.com Inc introduced Wednesday (Oct 12) a waterproof Kindle e-reader long-awaited by enthusiasts, the latest in a string of consumer devices from the online retail giant this year.

This photo provided by Amazon shows Amazon’s latest Kindle. Amazon says the new Kindle is 30 percent thinner and 20 percent lighter than previous Kindles. It’s also asymmetrical, with a grip on one side for one-handed reading. Photo: Amazon via AP

This photo provided by Amazon shows Amazon’s latest Kindle. Amazon says the new Kindle is 30 percent thinner and 20 percent lighter than previous Kindles. It’s also asymmetrical, with a grip on one side for one-handed reading. Photo: Amazon via AP

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SAN FRANCISO — Amazon.com Inc introduced Wednesday (Oct 12) a waterproof Kindle e-reader long-awaited by enthusiasts, the latest in a string of consumer devices from the online retail giant this year.

The device, an updated version of the Kindle Oasis, has a faster 4G wireless connection, six-week battery life, and a brighter 7-inch screen, slightly larger than the previous model. Waterproofing has long been an omission on Kindle e-readers, and will now let people read at the beach or in the bathtub without worrying about damage, Amazon said.

The 4G internet functionality means users will be able to download books more quickly than on the previous 3G version. The new model also has Bluetooth and integrates with Amazon's Audible service to stream audio books to wireless headphones or speakers. The 4G version costs $350 and includes 32 GB of storage. The base model -- without 4G capability and with 8 GB of storage -- costs $250.

It's been an unusually packed year for Amazon gadgets. Last month, the company introduced several new Echo speakers and rolled out refreshed tablets. Amazon also launched the Echo Show, with a screen, and an Echo Look that gives style suggestions. BLOOMBERG

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