Amazon announces lighted Kindle Paperwhite

Amazon unveiled a new Kindle e-reader Friday, dubbed the Paperwhite, with higher resolution than previous models and a backlight for night reading. The Kindle Paperwhite is thinner than a magazine at 0.35 inches and weighs 7.5 ounces, the online retailer said, with 25 percent more screen contrast than previous Kindles. Amazon said the Paperwhite's battery can power the device for as long as eight weeks even if its back light is powered on, the Los Angeles Times reported. A WiFi version will cost $119 with a 3G version selling for $179, Amazon said. The Kindle Paperwhite will begin shipping Oct. 1, the company said. At the introductory event in Los Angeles, Amazon also announced a price cut of $10 on its existing $79 Kindle.