Amazon launches updated Kindle Paperwhite and Paperwhite Signature Edition

Amazon today launched two versions of its popular Kindle Paperwhite. Called the Paperwhite and Paperwhite Signature Edition, the two models are largely identical with the Signature Edition adding a couple of extra features.

The new Paperwhite features a larger 6.8-inch display with smaller bezels on the side. The maximum brightness has been increased by 10% and you can now adjust the warmth of the display for easier reading. The Signature Edition adds automatic brightness adjustment based on the ambient lighting.

The battery life has been increased to 10 weeks, the longest for any Kindle so far. The new models charge over a USB-C connection, taking about 2.5 hours for a full charge. The Signature Edition offers wireless charging functionality, a first for any Kindle.

The standard Paperwhite features 8GB of internal storage while the Signature Edition features 32GB.

The new Kindles also feature an updated UI, with easier switching between home screen, library, and your current book while the updated library now features new filters and sorting options, a new collection view, and an interactive scroll bar.

The Kindles can now also be paired with the help of an iOS or Android smartphone running the Kindle app. This helps reduce the setup process with fewer steps than setting it up directly on the Kindle.

The new Kindle Paperwhite and Paperwhite Signature Edition are up for pre-order today. They will start shipping October 27 for the Paperwhite and November 4 for the Signature Edition.