Amazon has rolled out version 2 of their popular Kindle app for Windows Phone devices. The update comes without a changelog but was long overdue as their last app change came with version 1.2 way back in July. That update brought ‘Mango’ support including Live Tiles for books and this one goes along the same path but for Windows Phone 8.
The good news is if you’re on Windows Phone 8, the app now supports all resolutions and doublewide Tiles, including those for books, which is a neat twist. They will even flip to display some information, including the last book you read and where you are in a current tome.
The app is listed as Windows Phone 8 only though, which means for those on 7.x you can still download version 1.2 but you won’t be getting the new look (or of course doublewide Tiles).
Speaking of that new look, Amazon has gone for a more barebones logo with version 2.0, though it is only skin deep as it is merely on the Tiles and not within the app itself. The new logo is orange with ‘kindle’ emblazoned across, keeping the design simple and bold (we like). The app though still looks exactly like version 1.2.
Surprisingly, Amazon did not opt for a fast-resume, meaning if you tap the Tile of an already “tombstoned” app in the background it won’t continue as is but will instead re-launch the app. Hopefully Amazon can improve upon that in a future update as such functionality is crucial to the Windows Phone 8 experience.
Other than the look and doublewide tiles, we haven’t found too many differences. There still is neither search ability nor read-aloud function, making this app still lighter in features than its counterparts on other platforms. Still, we’re hearing that for some people some bugs have been alleviated with this release for syncing and opening of books, so that’s a start.
Edit: Make sure you do a "clean install" meaning you uninstall the app then re-install it,otherwise it will crash.
Windows Phone 8 users can grab version 2.0 of Amazon Kindle here in the Store. Thanks, Seth H., for the tip!
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
The Black Friday keyboard deals you need to know about
Getting your hands on a new keyboard is exciting for PC users, and thanks to Black Friday, it's more affordable than ever before. Here's a look at the best Black Friday keyboard deals available now.
Best Wireless Headsets for Xbox Series X, Series S 2020
Next-gen consoles need next-gen wireless. Here are our picks for the best wireless headsets for Xbox Series X and Series S.
Here's what to expect from Windows 10 in 2021
The year is almost over, so it’s time to look ahead to 2021 and see what we can expect from Windows in 2021. Windows 10 has taken somewhat of a backseat when it comes to major features or OS changes in the last couple of years, but that appears to be about to change as Microsoft aims to refocus on the OS in big ways next year.
Make the most of your Surface Pen and Slim Pen with these awesome apps
To really maximize the ability of the Surface Pen and Slim Pen, there are some essential apps you should check out. We've rounded up the best right here for a variety of purposes.