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Amazon has officially announced the discontinuation of the Kindle Oasis, marking the end of an era for e-readers equipped with physical page-turn buttons. This decision highlights the tech giant's shift towards more modern, touch-based devices that align better with evolving reader preferences.
The Kindle Oasis, first launched in 2016, distinguished itself as a premium e-reader that incorporated unique features such as page-turn buttons and a thoughtfully designed ergonomic grip for one-handed reading. Over the years, the Oasis saw updates and refreshes in 2017 and 2019, but it has remained unchanged for several years now.
According to a statement from Amazon's Devon Corvasce, the company confirmed that it would not be restocking the Kindle Oasis once the existing inventory is sold out. "Today, all of our devices are touch-forward, which is what our customers are comfortable with," Corvasce noted, emphasizing a trend favoring touch screens over traditional buttons.
Currently, Amazon’s product listing indicates that the Kindle Oasis is “currently unavailable,” prompting many avid readers to seek alternatives. This decision reflects a broader transition in the e-reader market, as newer models offered by Amazon, including the latest Kindle lineup announced recently, do not feature physical buttons. The new offerings include:
- Kindle Paperwhite with a larger screen
- Kindle ColorSoft, which introduces a color display for the first time
- An updated Kindle Scribe, now in its second generation
While these new devices proudly showcase advanced features and enhanced reading experiences, they all share the common trait of being entirely touch-based, leaving behind the physical attributes that defined the Oasis.
The discontinuation of the Kindle Oasis may signify a poignant moment for dedicated fans of physical buttons, but it also paves the way for innovation and new technology in the realm of e-reading. As Amazon continues to introduce a modernized lineup of e-readers without physical buttons, the focus will undeniably shift towards providing advanced functionalities and seamless user experiences to cater to the needs of today’s readers.
In conclusion, while we acknowledge the passing of the Kindle Oasis, its legacy as a beloved device in the annals of e-reader history will be fondly remembered. As readers continue to evolve, so will the devices they use, ushering in an exciting new age for digital reading.
