SEATTLE — Amazon is refreshing its lineup of tablet computers with new devices called Kindle Fire HDX, which are significantly faster and lighter than the previous generation. The 7- and 8.9-inch versions also have sharper, more colorful displays than older models, and both have more pixels per inch than the latest iPad.
To help those who are unfamiliar with tablets, the new Kindles come with a feature called “Mayday,” which allows users to summon a live customer-service representative in a tiny video window. The helpers can explain new features or troubleshoot problems while guiding users with on-screen hand scribbles. They can even take control of the device from afar.
CEO Jeff Bezos says the feature takes advantage of Amazon’s massive cloud computing and customer-service infrastructure.
“You shouldn’t have to be afraid of your device,” Bezos said.
