The Kindle Gets an Update

It's just a software update, so don't get too excited. Amazon has released Kindle software version 1.0.4 for their electronic bookreader, starting Thursday, 2/14.

When I mean starting Thursday, Amazon plans to roll out the update wirelessly, but gradually. Per their update page:

To make the update process as effective as possible for all of our customers, not all Kindle users will receive the software update wirelessly at the same time. You'll be notified via e-mail when the software update is available for your Kindle. If you have not received this e-mail, please be patient--it's coming. You'll still be able to enjoy all of Kindle's functionality even if you don't update your software right away.

You should get the update email by 2/29 at the latest. If for some reason you are outside of wireless coverage area, Amazon.com will post instructions for manual updating on their site later.

It's unclear what the changes are (no release notes, natch), but people who have tried it haven't seen anything obvious.

To check your software version:

1. Set your Kindle power switch to the "ON" position.
   
2. Press the Home key and then select "Settings" from the Home menu.
   
3. View the version listed at the bottom of the Settings screen. The version listed should be "Kindle 1.0.4 (144750018)".

To manually activate the update feature (it should update automatically, but ...):

1. Set the Kindle Power and Wireless switches to the "ON" position.
   
2. Check the Whispernet status indicator at the bottom of the screen to ensure you are connected.
   
3. Put Kindle to sleep by holding down the [ALT] key and pressing the [AA] key.