How the Kindle Paperwhite front lit display works [video]

Amazon calls the new Kindle Paperwhite front lit e-ink device ”the world’s most advanced e-reader” and it mostly refers to its display. It has a much better resolution than previous Kindle generations (62% more pixels), as well as the contrast (25% higher).

There is a second major benefit of Kindle Paperwhite’s screen – front light (front lit). It enables to read in the dark, and, unlike back lit tablet screens, it allows to read for long time without causing eye strain.

The light glow is produced thanks to an optical fiber which had been flattened into a 0.5mm sheet. It’s capturing the light emitted from around the screen and transmitting it across the surface. It can happen because the light is bouncing from one end of the film to the other.

Kindle Paperwhite, 6″ High Resolution Display with Built-in Light, Wi-Fi – Includes Special Offers

World’s most advanced e-reader – high resolution, high contrast touchscreen with built-in light and up to 8-week battery life, even with the light on at setting 10. Kindle Paperwhite delivers clear, crisp text and images with no glare, even in bright sunlight. The patented built-in light evenly illuminates the screen, not the entire room, so you won’t disturb your partner when you can’t put your book down at night.

Paperwhite front lit – the ultimate reading experience

Unsurpassed Resolution
Our Paperwhite display offers 62% more pixels, and renders exceptionally sharp, clear text and images.

Stunning Contrast
Kindle Paperwhite’s screen has 25% higher contrast. Crisp, dark text against a brilliant white background makes for the perfect read.

Innovative Built-in Light
Paperwhite guides light towards the display from above instead of projecting it out at your eyes like back-lit displays, thereby reducing screen fatigue. You can adjust your screen’s brightness to create a perfect reading experience in all lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to bedtime reading.

Uncompromised Battery Life
A single charge lasts up to eight weeks, based on a half hour of reading per day with wireless off and the light setting at 10. Our breakthrough power management technology allows you to leave the light on at all times for the best possible contrast without sacrificing battery life.