Amazon introduces Kindle app for tablet computers

Last week, Amazon debuted the awaited Kindle for Mac application. This week, the online retail giant has unveiled another e-reader app for tablet computers, namely the iPad.

The new Kindle app automatically tailors itself to the size of the tablet's display and features page turn animation to replicate reading from a tangible, paper edition book. How retro.

While Amazon does say that the new application is for tablet computers in general, the only one specifically mentioned is Apple's iPad, set to debut in less than two weeks. The news comes on the heels of Barnes & Noble's announcement of a specific e-book reader app catering to the iPad.

While the iPad will come with access to Apple's own iBooks online bookstore, these other apps will grant direct access to either Amazon or B&N's online bookstores as well as any already purchased content.

Some might say that Amazon and B&N are giving into Apple, by supporting apps for the iPad rather than their own devices. But as The New York Times reports, these joint ventures could really lift the electronic book industry entirely. Maybe everyone will win.