Kindle, White, Front
Amazon’s updated entry-level Kindle e-reader. (Amazon photo)

Amazon this morning updated its entry level Kindle e-reader for the first time since 2014 — trimming its size, cutting down on its weight, giving it a more rounded design, doubling its memory, adding Bluetooth audio support, and offering the option of white in addition to the standard black.

The price will remain $79.99 for the ad-supported, touch-screen Kindle. The device is available for pre-order starting today, and it’s scheduled for release on July 7.

Amazon also added white as an optional color for its Kindle Paperwhite device, which sells for $119.99. The two devices represent the lower end of the Kindle lineup, which also includes the $199.99 Kindle Voyage e-reader and the $289.99 Kindle Oasis.

Kindle Paperwhite, in white.
Kindle Paperwhite, in white.

With the hardware update to the entry-level Kindle, Amazon was able to reduce the weight of the device to 5.7 ounces, from 6.7 ounces previously. The dimensions are now 6.3″ x 4.5″ x 0.36″, compared with 6.7″ x 4.7″ x 0.40″ previously. The company says the rounded design should also make the device easier to hold.

The Kindle’s new built-in Bluetooth audio support works in conjunction with the VoiceView audio feature that helps visually-impaired readers navigate the screen and read books. The feature requires a special audio adapter on earlier Kindle models.

Other new software features include the ability to export notes and highlights from e-books to email, as a PDF or spreadsheet file. Amazon says this new feature will be rolled out through an upcoming software update.

Like what you're reading? Subscribe to GeekWire's free newsletters to catch every headline

Job Listings on GeekWork

Find more jobs on GeekWork. Employers, post a job here.