A report from TechCrunch based on a prototype viewing indicates that Amazon is making upgrades to the Paperwhite e-reader for release in early- to mid-2014. Screen resolution is set to jump from 212 ppi to 300 ppi and the redesigned unit will supposedly be lighter than the current model.
Kobo, which manufactures screens for Amazon as well as its own line of e-readers, brought a higher 265 ppi screen to its own products first, so the Paperwhite’s new screen, code-named Ice Wine, will help Amazon up the ante.
TechCrunch also notes that Amazon is designing improved typography as part of the upgrade, which includes a custom font. Page turns will also be easier because of “squeezable” buttons that will provide haptic feedback. Additionally, the unit will have ambient light sensors for automatic brightness adjustments meant to track with the natural expansion/contraction of a person’s retinas in different light conditions. [TechCrunch]