Leak: Amazon’s next Kindle e-reader boasts ‘Paperwhite’ backlit display

Ever since Barnes & Noble debuted its GlowLight Nook e-reader, all eyes have been on Amazon for its upgraded Kindle. Now it looks like Amazon’s backlit e-reader has been leaked, ahead of the company’s media event next week.

The Verge has gotten its hands on a series of images that show off the new Kindle and tout a “Paperwhite” display with an integrated backlight. The new Kindle looks pretty much like Amazon’s existing Kindle Touch, except it sports a darker case and no “home” button below its display.

Amazon’s materials say that the e-reader will have “higher contrast, high resolution, integrated lighting, and eight weeks of battery life,” even if you’re using the integrated light. The Verge notes that the “Paperwhite” branding likely refers to the upgraded E-Ink screen technology over the Kindle’s existing “Pearl” screen.

There don’t seem to be any big surprises with the next Kindle, we figured a self-illuminated model was coming for some time, and improved E-Ink technology simply makes sense. It’s worth noting that this Kindle is touting rear lighting, versus the front lighting of B&N’s Nook with GlowLight.

Given the massive success of the Kindle Fire last year, I suspect Amazon is spending plenty more time on tablets rather than its standalone e-readers. We’re also expecting an improved Kindle Fire at next week’s event (we saw a glimpse of it yesterday), which will likely be the star of the show.