Kindle for PC: Read Kindle Books on Your Computer
Considering a Kindle? Explore Kindle for PC
Do you currently possess a Kindle device, or are you contemplating a purchase? Today, we will examine a complimentary E-Reader application provided by Amazon. This app facilitates the acquisition and reading of books from the Kindle Store, and streamlines synchronization between your computer and Kindle. Please note: this version is exclusively for Windows operating systems, with a Mac version anticipated soon.
Introducing Kindle for PC
This convenient E-Reader is entirely free of charge and boasts a swift installation process. Upon completion, you will be prompted to log in to your Amazon account. Should you not have an account or prefer not to create one, you can proceed without registration.
User Interface and Navigation
Following a successful login, you’ll encounter the application’s user interface, accompanied by introductory tooltips to guide you. The interface is remarkably polished and intuitive when contrasted with other E-Reader software available.
Once a book is loaded, you gain access to navigation controls, bookmarking capabilities, and a “Go To” function, enabling you to quickly jump to specific sections within the book.
Customization Options
A total of ten distinct font sizes are available for personalized reading comfort.
Furthermore, you can bookmark any page within the book for easy reference.
Page Turning and Controls
You can navigate through the pages using either your mouse or the arrow keys on your keyboard.
Windows 7 Integration
Users of Windows 7 can leverage the Jump List feature on the taskbar to access recently read books and other options.
Settings and Feedback
Clicking the Menu option, located in the upper right corner, grants access to settings, synchronization options, Kindle account management, and a feedback submission form for the application developers.
As the application is currently in Beta, the developers actively seek user input to enhance its functionality.
Purchasing and Downloading Books
To explore the Amazon bookstore, select “Shop in Kindle Store” from within the Kindle for PC interface.
Upon discovering a book of interest, click the “Buy now with 1-click” button, ensuring that delivery is directed to your Kindle for PC.
On the subsequent order confirmation screen, click “Go to Kindle for PC” to launch the E-Reader application.
The Kindle home screen will appear, displaying your downloaded books and the progress of the current download.
Synchronization and WhisperSync
You’ll observe synchronization occurring in the lower left corner of the reader, as it checks for new content.
The innovative WhisperSync feature allows you to seamlessly resume reading from the last page visited, regardless of whether you are using the PC application, a Kindle device, or the iPhone app. This eliminates the need to manually locate your previous reading position.
Synchronization and content checks can be initiated at any time via the button adjacent to the Menu.
Book Management
As your digital library expands, you can organize your books by Title, Author, or Most Recent.
Current Limitations and Future Enhancements
While currently in Beta, the application lacks a search function and the ability to add annotations. However, it functions effectively and is user-friendly overall.
Conclusion
As of this review, Kindle for PC is compatible with Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7, with a Mac version under development. Amazon intends to incorporate features such as note-taking, search functionality, and image rotation in future updates.
Additionally, the application supports the Windows Touch feature in Windows 7, effectively transforming a touchscreen laptop into a complimentary Kindle device. If you are hesitant about purchasing a Kindle and wish to experience its functionality, Kindle for PC provides an excellent starting point. Download Kindle for PC Beta.
