Amazon to bring out three new Kindle tablet computers

27 Mar 2012

The Kindle Fire

E-commerce giant Amazon is expected to roll out three new tablet computers this year, including two low-end 7-inch models and one high-end 8.9-inch model.

Since launching the Kindle Fire Android-based tablet computer late last year, Amazon has sold some 5m devices.

It is understood that Amazon has signed deals with Taiwanese manufacturers Quanta and Hon Hai for assembly of the devices, Prime View and Chimei Innolux for flat-panel displays and Chimei Innolux for exclusive supply of 7-inch touch sensors.

According to Taiwan Economic News, Amazon will roll out three different models with different resolution capabilities: a 7-inch model (1,024 x 600), a second 7-inch model (1,280 x 800) and an 8.9-inch (1,920 x 1,200).

The increased co-operation with Taiwanese suppliers will enable Amazon to cut costs and improve the profit margin it yields on the Kindle Fire.

John Kennedy is a journalist who served as editor of Silicon Republic for 17 years

editorial@siliconrepublic.com