Quote:
Originally Posted by sirbruce
I do agree that the lack of software upgrades for the Kindle is... odd. If Kindle is such a big deal, surely Amazon could hire some more developers at Lab126? I mean they could bang out folder support in a month. I know they've been busy developing for new hardware like the K2 and KDX, but given that it's unlikely Amazon has another device coming out in 9 months, now is the time they should be rolling out software updates every couple of weeks.
|
I too wonder at this lack/reluctance to upgrade the software - with the resources of Amazon/Lab 126. And I chafe at Jeff Bezos apparent reluctance to say anything definite about anything - out loud. Marketing issues and product development confidentiality issues aside, would it really hurt anyone to issue a statement definitely explaining why folders will or won't ever be implemented? And why? Or native PDF support that's real and functional? On K2 or DX? Or even how these decisions are made?
I wonder if Amazon/Bezos are afraid of entering on a software development cycle spiral with their reading software that could emulate what we've seen with Microsoft - where each new release is bloated with features no one wants or knows how to use, and the keystrokes or location of older familiar features are changed or hidden? Just to issue a NEW product to sell it?
Is he keeping the Kindle purposely simple/simplistic to maintain its appeal to non-geeks who love to read (the Baby Boomers who are retiring with time on their hands and not a lot of money to do anything but stay home & read) and porting it to the iPhone (and possibly more platforms in the future) for those who want the bells & whistles of gadgetry? And letting the phone & PDA folk bear the brunt of software upgrades/development?
A bit off topic, but inspired by sirbruce's comments, and those I've been reading throughout these forums.
(I'm getting off my soapbox now)
