A new version of Kindle has been released, touted as the thinnest and lightest Kindle to date.

The Kindle Oasis is 30% thinner and 20% lighter than other Kindle models, and is designed to enable one-handed reading using an ergonomic grip that shifts the centre of gravity to the user's palm.

Amazon first introduced the Kindle in 2008, giving readers access to thousands of books and resources via the Amazon platform.

Amazon says it's mission is to create new Kindles that are smaller, lighter an faster in order to “make the device disappear”.

“To lean back and read for hours, you need a sanctuary from distraction,” explains Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com founder and CEO.

“We want Kindle to disappear, and Kindle Oasis is the next big step in that mission,” he says,

“It's the most advanced Kindle we've ever built—thin and ultra-lightweight, it gets out of the way so you can lose yourself in the author's world.

The Oasis is the eighth Kindle version released. It also comes with a charging cover that opens like a book, waking the device when opened and putting it to sleep when closed. Twelve magnets keep the device attached to the cover.

The Oasis features 300 ppi Paperwhite display. As well as a redesigned built-in front light.

The new Kindle is available for pre-order with a $449 price tag.