Amazon Bows New Kindle Tablets With Offline Streaming

25 Sep, 2013 By: Erik Gruenwedel

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HDX units allow Prime Instant Video subs to download movies and TV shows to stream offline for 30 days

Amazon Sept. 25 launched two new Kindle tablets — HDX — featuring higher-resolution screens, low-light pixels, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 800 core processor, longer-lasting battery, Dolby audio and 24/7 customer support, among other features.

Key to video streamers, as well as a competitive advantage over Netflix and Hulu Plus, the HDX tablets enable Amazon Prime Instant Video subscribers to download select movies and TV shows that can be streamed offline for up to 30 days. Netflix, Hulu Plus or other SVOD content can only be accessed with a high-speed Internet connection.

Content partners include CBS, Warner Bros., NBC Universal, Viacom and Sony Pictures.

The Wi-Fi-only 16GB HDX with a 7-inch screen retails for $229, while the 8.9-inch unit retails for $379. Amazon is also selling HDX models with larger storage and 4G functionality. The 7-inch model ships Oct. 15, and on Nov. 7 for the 8.9-inch screen.

Notably (and likely for competitive reasons), Kindle tablets still do not offer Google apps, such as Play, Maps, Now and YouTube, among others.

Amazon is also cutting the price of the Kindle Fire HD tablets, with the 8GB unit now selling for $139, and $169 for the 16GB model — $30 less than its original price two years ago.
 

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