Kindle Oasis

Kindle Oasis. The Kindle Oasis is a premium line of e-reader devices developed and marketed by Amazon under its Kindle brand. First introduced in 2016, it positioned itself as the flagship model, emphasizing superior ergonomics, premium materials, and advanced display technology. Subsequent iterations have refined its design and added features like waterproofing and adjustable color temperature.

History and development

The first Kindle Oasis was announced by Amazon in April 2016, succeeding the high-end Kindle Voyage. Its development was driven by a focus on one-handed reading comfort, leading to an asymmetric design. The second-generation model, released in 2017, introduced a larger screen and integrated waterproofing, a feature popularized by the Kindle Paperwhite line. The third and most recent major update arrived in 2019, adding an adjustable warm light, a feature later incorporated into other models like the 10th-generation Paperwhite. Throughout its history, the Oasis has served as a technological showcase for Amazon Lab126, the division responsible for Kindle hardware.

Design and hardware

The Oasis is distinguished by its unique ergonomic design, featuring a thicker grip housing the battery and system-on-a-chip, tapering to a thin display edge. This aluminum and glass construction provides a premium feel distinct from the plastic used in the standard Kindle. It utilizes a flush-front E Ink Paperwhite display with built-in front lighting. A significant hardware feature across generations is the inclusion of two dedicated page-turn buttons, a physical control absent from other contemporary Kindle models. For connectivity, all models offer Wi-Fi, with an optional 4G LTE Global Connect variant for use with AT&T networks in certain regions.

Features and software

The device runs a customized Linux-based operating system, providing access to the vast Amazon Kindle Store. Key software features include Whispersync, which synchronizes reading progress and notes across devices and platforms like the Kindle for PC app. It supports formats like AZW, PDF, and MOBI, and integrates with services such as Goodreads and Audible for audiobook playback via Bluetooth. The software enables text customization, X-Ray for character and term exploration, and vocabulary building tools like Word Wise. The interface is designed for simplicity, contrasting with more multifunctional tablets like the Apple iPad.

Models and specifications

Three primary generations define the model lineup. The first (8th generation) featured a 6-inch display, a removable leather cover with supplemental battery, and was available in Wi-Fi and 4G LTE configurations. The second generation (9th) increased the screen to 7 inches, adopted a waterproof IPX8 rating, and integrated the battery into the main body. The third generation (10th) retained the 7-inch or 7-inch E Ink Carta display and waterproofing, adding 25 LEDs with adjustable color temperature. All Oasis models include 8 GB of storage, with 32 GB options introduced later. They are powered by processors from Freescale Semiconductor and its successors.

Reception and reviews

Upon release, the first Oasis received praise from outlets like The Verge and CNET for its innovative design and exceptional battery life, though its high price was frequently critiqued. The addition of waterproofing in the second generation was widely lauded, with TechRadar noting its appeal for reading by the pool or in a bath. Reviewers from Wired and Engadget consistently highlighted the premium feel and page-turn buttons as key differentiators from the Kindle Paperwhite. Common criticisms across reviews, including those from PCMag, centered on the lack of USB-C charging and the incremental nature of updates, especially following the 2019 refresh.