Amazon readying Kindle software for Mac
updated 12:40 pm EDT, Fri October 23, 2009
App synchronizes with standalone devices
Following Amazon's announcement of Kindle software for Windows users, the company has acknowledged that it is also working on a Mac version, according to Fast Company. Although the spokesperson did not provide specific details regarding the Mac app, the PC edition allows users to purchase, download, and read content from the Kindle store.
The software will synchronize with the Kindle or Kindle DX devices, enabling bookmarks and progress information to be automatically updated. Users can also view notes and highlights that have been marked on the standalone readers.
The PC version supports Windows 7 multi-touch controls such as finger pinch for zoom and swipe for page turns. It is unclear if the same functionality will be extended to Mac.
Kindle for PC is expected to be ready next month, although the company has yet to announce a time-frame for the Mac download.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Dec 2005
Total Control
I think a lot of people would be more happy with the kindle service is they could store and have complete control over their media locally. This would open up the door to "lending" friends books, as B&N's 'nook' attempts to do. You could also upload your files directly from your computer to the device - no more third party to track you or wait times/connections issues to deal with. Not to mention, you wouldn't have to worry about a purchase being revoked and deleted from Amazon's end after the fact as 1984 was.
After Danger & MS's fail, I don't think anyone serious would trust their backup to a cloud unless the cloud's servers had their own backups across the country, safeguarding against natural disasters coinciding with data loss on your device.
Diversifying input options is something I think would garner many more customers for the platform.