Just unboxed the Kindle. Downloaded a title:The PrefectPlugged into my lappy running Ubuntu 9.04 64bit. Shows up- dropped a .prc book into the Kindle and it shows up. I’ll see about making folders later…Unfortunately, I cannot *use* the Kindle when it is plugged in to the USB port. Even though it is unmounted the Kindle insists it is still mounted. An irritation but not a deal-breaker.Ergonomics: easy to hold; while there is some heft to the unit it isn’t enough to cause strain in the short-run… I’ll let ya’ll know what it is like after *several hours* of reading.Visually it is adequate. Not sure if I like the lower contrast between the ground and text but I’m sure it is "dialed in" to reduce eye-strain. Is there some way to adjust this? Misses the contrast ratio between real ink and paper by quite a bit.The primary complaint I have is with the screen- the glare. It has to be held just so depending on the light source. An anti-reflective/matte screen would serve better IMO.It was worrisome at first, before I had held it that the K2 would be too small (or too large) and the 6" screen would be too quick to read making page-turnings a constant distraction. Not so. I don’t care for the black flicker when the text changes but I’m positive I won’t even notice it by the end of my first title. Screen could be a little bigger…Concerning portability: the size is perfect IMO. The weight is about the same as a regular book.Second real complaint. The usb port is at the bottom end. When it is plugged in (charging) the device must be held "up" to avoid resting on the plug. Resting on the plug will eventually: a- damage the port , b- damage the cable/plug. Plus it make it awkward to hold if one is used to resting a book on their chest or belly. The solution is to charge it while not in use.Concerning the battery:A quote from Mel Lammers in another thread:"Normally, a LIon battery can be recharged at any time in its life span. Eventually it will need replacing but that is in the range of 300-500 full recharges. A full recharge is defined as starting from a full discharged state I think."Based upon the 500 cycles (at two weeks each) it would take approximately 19 years to wear out the battery. I think the 2 day cycle is more realistic and that gives a lifespan of 2.7 years. Just in time to buy the new model!!!Overall I’m pleased. The acid test has yet to be applied. Outlook is positive.

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