Amazon unveils lighter, thinner ebook reader at Rs 5,999

Amazon has unveiled an upgraded version of Kindle, which is thinner, lighter and available at a low price, aiming to boost its sales.

The new Kindle will be available in the US for as low as $80, which is the same price of the version that it replaces. However, this one comes with more memory and added features. The new version is priced at Rs 5,999 in India and is up for pre-orders. The device will start shipping from 7 July.

"Unlike reflective tablet and smartphone screens, the high contrast touchscreen display on Kindle eliminates glare in any setting, even in direct sunlight," Amazon said in a statement.

"Recent studies have shown that evening exposure to blue light from back-lit screens like tablets and smartphones can suppress the body's production of melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone that helps the body fall asleep. Because the Kindle display emits no light, you can read anytime without losing sleep," added the statement.

The new Kindle weighs in at 161 grams and comes with a six-inch display.