In a recent examination of the Kindle Colorsoft, one aspect that stood out as a drawback was its minimalist design. Unlike its predecessor, the now-retired Kindle Oasis, which featured physical buttons for turning pages, the Colorsoft lacks such functionality. Competing devices like the Kobo Libra Colour and Boox Go Color 7 also offer buttons, creating a gap in user experience for those who prefer tactile controls. This absence meant that users had to rely on screen taps to turn pages—an action that could leave unsightly fingerprints behind.

This wasn’t a significant concern for some users, who simply tapped the margins of the screen. However, it posed a considerable distraction for others, leading them to favor devices with more conventional options. Fortunately, Amazon has addressed this with its latest update, providing a new method of navigation with some constraints.

With the release of the Kindle Software version 5.18.1, both the Kindle Colorsoft and the 12th Generation Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition have introduced a new feature: users can turn pages by double-tapping anywhere on the device, including the sides or back. After installing the update, a brief tutorial screen appears, allowing users to dive into a book and test the new feature. Rest assured, traditional screen taps remain functional as well.

Initially, mastering the timing for the double tap can be a bit challenging. However, keeping the double tap interval brief can help prevent unintentional page advances. Within just a few minutes, many users can establish a rhythm that feels intuitive. This gesture doesn’t require excessive force and remains comfortable for most readers. It’s worth noting, though, that those who tend to turn pages frequently may find this method somewhat tiresome over extended reading sessions.

On the flip side, the limitation of this double-tap feature lies in its functionality; only forward page navigation is supported. Unfortunately, there’s no equivalent gesture for going back, which can be disappointing for users accustomed to such flexibility. It appears that the Kindle’s technology may not discern between taps on the left side versus the right, prompting Amazon to designate all double taps for advancing pages. Users may have to adjust their touch habits since tapping with the left hand won’t reverse pages as expected.

Moreover, if you’re browsing the Kindle home screen, the double tap can also initiate a slight downward scroll, adding a useful feature that enhances navigation.

The 5.18.1 software update is currently available. Users can check for it by navigating to Settings > Device Options > Software Updates. However, some may find that this update isn’t listed as an option if they are still on version 5.18.0.01. In such cases, users can manually download the update from Amazon’s website and transfer it to their Kindle following these steps:

1. Download the 5.18.1 software update from the link provided.

2. Power on your Kindle.

3. Connect your Kindle to a computer (Amazon recommends using the original charging cable, although this may not be necessary).

4. Using your computer, drag and drop the software update file to your Kindle. Mac users might need additional software to recognize their device.

5. Select “Disconnect” from your Kindle menu (or eject it from the computer) and unplug the device.

6. Go to Settings > Device Options and select Software Updates. Your Kindle will restart and apply the new software.

After completing these steps, the new double tap feature will be automatically enabled along with a tutorial to guide users through the process. Should the double tap functionality become a little too sensitive, it can be easily disabled under Settings > Device Options > Double Tap.