Next Kindle may have Wi-Fi plus 3G, 3G-only options
updated 10:25 am EDT, Mon May 31, 2010
Amazon hints at 2010 Kindle model split
The next Kindle may be Amazon's first with Wi-Fi, internal product listings showed today. The devices, nicknamed Shasta, show both with and without Wi-Fi. The split suggests Amazon will base prices on networking and give a different model access to the Kindle store without needing a cellular connection.
Whether Wi-Fi would come in addition to or in place of 3G wasn't made evident to Engadget's source. If the latter, it could represent a budget Kindle that costs significantly below $259 at the expense of the always-on connection.
Few rumors have discussed the new Kindle so far, but it's expected to ship in August and to focus mostly on refining the experience with a thinner design and a crisper, faster e-paper display.
