Monday, 17 December 2012
Jailbreak for Kindle Paperwhite Version 5.2.0 and 5.3.0
Yesterday a new jailbreak package was posted over on MobileRead that works on all currently available Kindle Paperwhites with 5.2.0 or 5.3.0 firmware.Basically all you have to do is download a zip file to your computer, extract it, and then copy the contents over to your Kindle Paperwhite. It adds a new ebook called “Paperwhite Jailbreak” to the device that you simply have to open and follow the directionsThe process is really easy and only takes a couple of minutes to free your Kindle from Amazon’s controlling grasp and open it up to further customization. Jailbreaking itself doesn’t really add anything, but it opens up the doors to install other hacks. Basically it makes it so you can install custom update packages instead of just the ones from Amazon.
Along with the jailbreak, the package installs the Kindlet developer certificates, the jailbreak bridge, and rescue pack.This is obviously something Amazon frowns upon so don’t expect them to repair or exchange a jailbroken Kindle. Personally I don’t find much use in jailbreaking a Kindle (it’s not like the Nook Touch where you can install a bunch of Android apps), so this is something I’m not going to try. Plus I’m planning on exchanging my Paperwhite to see if I can get one without discolorations. But for those of you eager to customize and hack your Kindle Paperwhite, hit the jailbreaking thread over at MobileRead for the directions and download.
Thursday, 1 November 2012
Software Update for Kindle Fire HD Version 7.2.2 Adds New Features
The Kindle Fire HD got some new features via a firmware update yesterday.The new firmware is labeled version 7.2.2, and it’s for the 7? Kindle Fire HD. The 8.9? model has different firmware, and there isn’t any mention of the new features on its software update page yet—it will probably be updated soon.Here are the three new features added with the update:
Camera app. You can now use the front-facing web camera to take pictures of yourself with an included camera app in the Photos library.
Swype. Swype is a keyboard feature that provides a fast way to enter text. It lets you create a word by drawing through letters. Swype also provides additional keyboard functions like copy and paste and the ability to change the keyboard language.
Kindle FreeTime Unlimited. Kindle FreeTime Unlimited is a subscription service you can choose to sign up for within Kindle FreeTime. Parents can subscribe children’s profiles to a wide variety of videos, apps, and games appropriate for ages 3-8. For more information, see http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?&docId=1000863021.
Like usual, the update will download and install automatically to your Kindle Fire HD if it is connected to the internet. You can initiate the update by swiping down from the top of the Kindle’s screen to open the notifications bar and then tap “Sync”.Another option is to download the update to your computer and transfer it to the Kindle via USB. Hit the 7? Kindle Fire HD Software Update page for the directions and download link.