The new device shares the same form factor as the current Kindle, but has the extra internal hardware needed to connect to AT&T's global wireless network in over 100 countries including the U.S. Pre-orders begin today with a ship date of October 19.
The current Kindle has made use of Sprint's cellular network to handle wireless connectivity for the device. The new partnership with AT&T to handle the international version of the device is surely a great boon to AT&T, who is getting slammed by customers and competitors alike for its 3G service in the U.S.
A price cut for flagship U.S.-only version of the Kindle comes at a strategic time, right before many gear up for the holiday shopping season. Many would-be customers have cited the high price of the device as being a limiting factor, and a bit more than 13% drop might sway a number of personal buyers and gift-givers alike.