Irish book lovers can now buy the latest titles wirelessly at the touch of a button, with the unveiling of the international version of the Amazon Kindle reader.
The device is linked by a wireless data connection to the online retailer's book store, which sells books, magazines and newspapers, including The Irish Times.
The Kindle, which has topped Amazon.com's best-selling items list for some time, was only available for US customers to buy. From today, however, customers overseas can buy the device with an international wireless package.
The device has a six-inch screen, uses electronic ink to make it as close to a traditional book as possible, and weighs about as much as a paper-back book.
"The most important thing when you're reading it to be able to get lost in the author's words," said Amazon's senior vice president of worldwide digital media Steve Kessel.
Up to 1,500 titles can be stored on the Kindle, with extra titles kept in an online archive from where users can store and download documents.
The device uses 3G wireless data connections to connect to the Kindle store and to each user's online storage locker. However, customers are not charged for use of the network, as Amazon has promised to cover the data fee.
"You have no contract with the carrier, no monthly fees, no two-year commitments," said Mr Kessel.
"People around the world now have access to an English-language book catalogue of more than 250,000."
The company did not rule out looking at other wireless technologies in the future.
"What's critical is to have fast access, and great coverage. Today, the best way to do that is the 3G network," said Mr Kessel.
The device is only available through Amazon's US store for $279. However, international customers will also have to take into account delivery charges and import taxes.
Mr Kessel said over time the company would look at shipping the device from other locations.
