Amazon Releases Kindle Fire Update; Improvements Reported
The first software update of Amazon Kindle Fire, announced Wednesday, promises major enhancements in Web browsing, privacy controls and a more responsive touchscreeen.
The update comes less than two weeks after Kindle users reported a batch of problems with Amazon's hottest selling product. The problems included poor Wi-Fi connectivity, navigation and privacy issues. However, the biggest concern was raised by parents who found the device lacked parental controls. While many users returned the device to retailers, it was a low blow to the multi-retailer giant who at once addressed their grievances with promises of an update soon.
Amazon said that the new software update version 6.2.1 is meant to enhance fluidity and performance and improve touch navigation responsiveness.
The new interface tweak will make it easier to organize apps on the tablet by choosing which items to display on the carousel. Another major change is the ability to block WI-FI access by keying in a password. According to a report on PC World, the update blocks super user access to the Kindle Fire with one-click rooting apps.
The new update is said to be freely available. To update to the new version, Amazon advises customers to ensure connection over a Wi-Fi network and that device's battery is fully charged. Users then need to tap Sync, after which the update will download and install automatically. Amazon also listed a set of detailed instructions on the company website for a manual download.
Some users blogged reported improvements on the 6.2.1 version, with smoother navigation and a touchscreen more responsive. One was particularly happy about the change saying, My update went flawlessly and my cleaned up carousel is wonderful!
For $199, the Kindle Fire cooked up a storm in the tablet market with millions of units shipped since its Nov. 14 debut. Even though the device wasn't a blazing success initially, the new tweaks rolled out might just earn the Fire its place back in the tablet market.
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