Amazon's New Kindle Colorsoft Faces Backlash Over Display Issues, Users Call for Fix
November 3, 2024
The Kindle Colorsoft, launched on October 30, 2024, marks Amazon's first foray into color e-readers, featuring a 7-inch display with 300 PPI for black and white and 150 PPI for color.
However, the device is facing significant backlash due to a yellow discoloration at the bottom of the display, which many users have reported.
As a result, the Kindle Colorsoft currently holds an average rating of just 2.7 stars out of 5 on Amazon, based on over 550 reviews.
Customers have described experiencing a yellowish bar along with a hazy and grainy display, leading to eyestrain and headaches.
Amazon is aware of the problem and is reportedly working on a software update to address the display issues, while customer service has been instructed to assist affected users.
There are unconfirmed reports suggesting that Amazon has delayed shipping of Colorsoft units while seeking a software fix, with some customers experiencing postponed deliveries until mid-November.
Despite Amazon's proposed solutions, many customers are opting for exchanges or returns due to the persistent display problems.
Experts recommend the Kindle Colorsoft but advise potential buyers to wait for a resolution to these issues if they are significantly bothersome.
User reactions to the discoloration vary; while some find it distracting, others consider it a minor issue that does not significantly detract from their reading experience.
Initial reports suggest that the discoloration may be more noticeable in photographs than in real life, indicating variations in user experiences.
Before a software fix is available, users have been advised to reboot the device and allow it to power off for a few minutes to potentially alleviate the yellow bar issue.
Given its price point of approximately $300, many users feel that the quality issues are unacceptable for a premium device.
Summary based on 10 sources
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Sources

The Verge • Nov 2, 2024
Kindle Colorsoft owners complain of a yellow bar on the e-reader’s screen
TechCrunch • Nov 4, 2024
Amazon acknowledges screen issues on a ‘small number’ of Kindle Colorsoft units | TechCrunch
Lifehacker • Nov 4, 2024
Amazon’s First Color Kindle Is Having a Rocky Launch