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Amazon reportedly launching Kindle smartphones in early 2014

Published Dec 17th, 2013 10:05AM EST

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Amazon’s Kindle line of smartphones is a lot like Apple’s television set: A mythical creature that is only whispered of among analysts and supply chain sources but that never actually materializes. But now Digitimes‘ supply chain sources are claiming that next year will finally, at long last, see the debut of the Kindle phone.

Specifically, Digitimes says that supplier “Primax Electronics has obtained orders from Amazon for compact camera modules (CCMs) for use in smartphones to be launched in first-half 2014.” The report also claims that the Kindle phones will “feature floating touch technology, with each to be equipped with six CCMs for sensing,” which backs up earlier reports we’ve heard about the new Amazon devices using multiple front-facing cameras to help deliver a 3D display that will track users’ head movements.

Although we’ve been hearing rumors about Amazon getting into the smartphone game for years, the stars now really do seem aligned for the company to enter the market. Given how much value Amazon’s Kindle line of e-readers and Kindle Fire line of tablets add to its business, a Kindle smartphone only seems like the next logical step.

Brad Reed
Brad Reed Staff Writer

Brad Reed has written about technology for over eight years at BGR.com and Network World. Prior to that, he wrote freelance stories for political publications such as AlterNet and the American Prospect. He has a Master's Degree in Business and Economics Journalism from Boston University.