Amazon has started sending out its first color e-reader, the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition, but the initial response from customers hasn't been very positive. Many users are reporting a yellowish discoloration stripe that appears at the bottom edge of the screen, which spoils the device's promised paper-like reading experience. This issue has gained a lot of attention on social media and various forums, affecting the $279.99 device's ratings on Amazon. Support representatives have mentioned that a solution is in the works.
User Experiences Shared Online
A Reddit user pointed out that the defect is especially noticeable when the Kindle should have an even light and color, resembling a sheet of paper. Several other users with the same problem have reported returning or swapping their devices. Some mentioned they only noticed the yellowish strip when viewing the screen from specific angles or under edge lighting, which made it hard to ignore for some.
Possible Software Glitch
There are thoughts that this issue might stem from software problems. Certain customers have shared that they only saw the yellow stripe after the first software update on their devices, hinting that a glitch might have been introduced after they were made. A screenshot shared by another user indicated that a customer service rep from Amazon confirmed the company is looking into a fix, likely through an upcoming software update. However, Amazon has yet to make an official announcement, but reports suggest a solution could be on the way.
Current Rating and Future Implications
The scope of the problem is still uncertain. Currently, the Kindle Colorsoft has a low average rating of 2.6 stars on Amazon. While some users find the yellow strip to be hardly noticeable, others believe it greatly affects the reading experience.
In a review conducted by The Verge, reporter Andrew Liszewski observed that the discoloration is more visible in photographs than in real life. He noted that if he hadn't heard about others' issues, he might not have seen it at all. With the increasing number of unhappy customers and ongoing device exchanges, it remains unclear how Amazon plans to tackle this situation and whether a software update can completely fix the problem.
Reddit via The Verge
