Amazon's soon-to-be-released next-generation Kindle is currently facing problems with mass production due to problems with the device's front light design, which may delay shipping of the device until later in the third quarter, according to industry sources.
Amazon's current-generation Kindles do not come with a front light but instead require an additional light source for illumination when used in low light areas. Since Barnes & Noble launched its Nook Simple Touch With GlowLight, Amazon has been working on its new and revised Kindle to compete and has been rumored to release the devices early the third quarter.
However, there have been recent reports indicating that Amazon has stopped certain parts shipments for the new Kindle and there is a possibility that orders from Amazon's electronic paper display provider, E Ink, will be stopped throughout July and August in order to tackle issues with the device's front light, added sources.
The possibly delay could reduce E Ink's shipments by 1.5-1.8 million units, thus giving the company poor order visibility for the third quarter.
Article translated by Alex Wolfgram
