Amazon upgrades Kindle DX with improved screen

Amazon's latest Kindle DX is cheaper and has an improved screen

Amazon has started taking orders for the latest version of its Kindle DX, which boasts 50 per cent better contrast and a lower price of $379 (£254).

The second generation Kindle DX is $110 (£74) cheaper than its predecessor and comes with a new graphite casing. The 9.7in e-ink screen has been improved to give clearer and sharper images when displaying books, newspapers, PDFs and magazines, said Amazon.

The online retailer will continue to supply free 3G to all users, stating that connectivity will be available in more than 100 countries.

The Kindle Store has more than 620,000 books available with prices for New York Times bestsellers and new releases starting at $9.99. There are also 1.8 million free out-of-copyright books, downloadable in 60 seconds without the need to set up or use a PC, according to the retailer.

As the iPad is capable of performing as an e-reader, companies such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble have slashed prices on their products to ensure that they remain competitive in the market.

E-readers such as the Nook from US book retailer Barnes & Noble, and the original Kindle are available for under £135, whereas prices for the iPad start at £429.

The updated Kindle DX comes just one month after Amazon released a Kindle App for the iPad, which offers more than 375,000 books for UK users.

The Kindle DX is scheduled to ship on 7 July. UK buyers wanting to purchase the latest model will need to do so through Amazon.com.