Kindle for Mac app updated to support gestures, richer formatting, Japanese

Amazon has updated its Kindle reader app for Macs, adding a number of new features. Users on OS X 10.7 Lion or above can now navigate the app using multi-touch gestures, while Japanese readers are able to view content in their native language. The app also includes support for Amazon’s new Format 8 ebooks, which use HTML5 and CSS to provide features such as drop caps, embedded fonts, and text pop-ups. After the high-profile launch of a range of new devices last week, including the 7-inch and 8.9-inch Kindle Fire HD family, it’s good to see Amazon keeping an eye on the less glamorous parts of the Kindle ecosystem — head over to the Mac App Store to download the updated app, which is available free of charge.