Amazons now venerable basic Kindle is getting Audible support in the coming months, allowing bleary-eyed book fans to give their eyes a rest.
In its latest listing for the basic Kindle, Amazon noted it’s bringing back audiobook support for the ebook reader.
“With built-in Audible, access the world’s largest library of audiobooks. Easily switch between reading and listening on Bluetooth-enabled speakers or headphones,” the company’s listing said.
This is good news for audiobook fans who don’t want to shell out for the higher-end Kindle models, notably the waterproof 7-inch display sporting Kindle Oasis.
The entry-level Kindle originally supported audiobook playback in 2007, when Amazon acquired Audible. But Amazon dropped the feature, demoting the Kindle back to a capable albeit basic ebook reader.
But now Amazon has done a complete circle and while there’s no set date for when audiobook support will come back to the basic Kindle, it’s at least slated for a return.
However, streaming and listening to audiobooks is more demanding on power than simply reading digital books, and the basic Kindle doesn’t have a vast battery pack. While it can provide weeks of simple ereader functions, listening to audiobooks especially through Bluetooth connected speakers, could see the Kindle battery drained at a much faster rate.
So while Audible’s some 375,000 audiobooks might appeal to people who want to give their eyes a rest from reading, the basic Kindle might not be the ideal device for the job; the Audible app on Android and iOS might offer a better way to get your audiobook fix.
Related: Kindle Voyage vs Paperwhite
What’s your preferred way to listen to audiobooks? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
