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Enjoying the Kindle in Europe
Amazon seems to be missing the opportunity in gaining more book lovers and business by not extending the Kindle to Europe and I think the delays has more to do with Amazon finding a UK operator prepared to host the Kindle’s Whispernet connections which is what makes the device so unique.
Having traveled through Europe before using my iPhone, I’m well aware of Europe’s many national boundaries, and the data roaming charges that go along with them which presents yet another issue for Amazon.
But if you’re willing to go the extra mile in wanting to download books abroad, I found two gutsy alternatives that can get the job done.
- Kindle Mod for Wireless Access - Keep in mind that it’s still a work in progress and that you may be voiding your warranty on the device by trying it but the gist of the operation involves SIM card swapping to activate Whispernet. If successful, you’ll now retain the luxury of wireless download while waiting in line at the Louvre in Paris.
- The USB way - If being a daredevil with the device is not your thing, Nerdgirl has put together an interesting tutorial targeted at people who have a Kindle, but don’t have a US credit card/billing address to purchase books. The book transferring for this option involves a USB cable and not Whispernet but at least you’ll have the option to enjoy a new piece of literature whenever you want which is the important part.
The fact that people have invested time in finding a backdoor access to taking pleasure of using a Kindle outside the US is a testament to the demand the device is having outside the states.
