Amazon redesigns Kindle lineup and adds accessories with page turning buttons

The first signs of Amazon's refresh came from leaked marketing images. On September 28, Digital Trends reported that images of the next basic Kindle showed rounded corners, a relocated power button and new color options.

The leaks initially pointed to an update for the entry-level reader. By September 30, TechRadar reported that four colors appeared to be planned, but said there was no sign of a smaller model.

On September 29, shopping coverage began running alongside the hardware rumors. TechRadar reported that early Kindle discounts were appearing ahead of October Prime Day.

On September 30, Mashable Tech listed the Kindle Colorsoft Kids at $209.99, down $90 from its $299.99 list price. That was an existing product offer, not a price announcement for the redesigned lineup.

By October 1, the refresh extended beyond the basic Kindle. Gizmodo Tech reported new Kindle, Kindle Paperwhite and Kindle Colorsoft readers with flush screens and new colors. The Verge reported that all three would offer aluminum options rather than only plastic.

The controls changed too. TechRadar reported that Amazon had repositioned the power button across the new lineup. Physical page turning buttons were introduced through accessories, including a cover and a wireless remote, according to Gizmodo Tech.

Mashable Tech reported on October 1 that the remote, called Kindle Click, would cost $34.99. Digital Trends also described a magnetic charging stand and a selection of covers.

On October 5, Technology advertised a Kindle for $104, a $46 reduction described as 31% off. The supplied coverage does not establish that this offer applies to the newly redesigned model.

The new readers are announced, but availability is staggered. Technology reported that two updated readers would ship immediately, while most new readers and accessories would not arrive until late October.

The refresh also includes a more expensive Paperwhite option. CNET Tech showed a $290 Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition with an aluminum back, an automatically adjusting front light, 32GB of storage and dock charging.

Discounts need to be checked against the exact product being sold. On October 2, Technology reported a $145 reduction on the original Kindle Colorsoft Essentials Bundle, bringing it from $347 to $202 ahead of the new model's arrival.

October Prime Day runs October 6 and 7, according to TechRadar. The immediate question is which models receive further discounts, particularly whether offers cover redesigned readers or earlier devices.

Late October is the next availability milestone for most of the new hardware and accessories, according to Technology. Buyers seeking physical page turning controls should distinguish the readers themselves from the separate button-equipped cover and remote.