EBook publishing is accelerating by leaps and bounds and is poised to eclipse printed books.
Digital Books are specialized computer files. A lot of people are well-versed with DOC files for the ubiquitous Microsoft Word software. Just like Word uses specialized file types, EReaders and eReader apps use specialized file formats. The most common file types are EPUB and PDF.
To understand this emerging publishing industry, it’s important to be knowledgeable of how eBooks work. This article will cover the major eReader file platforms and the major platforms that display these files, including gadgets and software applications.
EPUB files are open source files that can be used by any reader excluding Amazon’s eReaders. The Amazon digital readers (the Kindle) require a special file type called AWZ that is only readable on Kindles. Alternative file types are: TXT, MOBI, PERC, DOC, HTML, and BBeB.
EReaders are custom-made devices that reads eBook files. All eReaders possess the ability to download ebooks wirelessly. They appear to have the same size and shape and have extremely long battery life relative to other electronic hardware. The following are a number of the main options widely available.
Amazon’s Kindle – Amazon manufactures several different eReaders called Kindles. These handhelds include the color Kindle Fire and electronic ink versions: Kindle Touch, Kindle Keyboard, and the Kindle. Amazon is dedicated to proprietary eBooks.
Kobo – Kobo is supported by Indigo Books & Music, REDgroup Retail, Cheung Kong Holdings, and others. This company supports open source eBooks.
Nook – Barnes and Noble offers a number of different eReaders called Nooks. There are two well-liked versions: Nook Color and Nook.
Sony Digital Book – Sony offers two eReaders. Both utilize digital ink, come with public library access and are the most handy 6 inch eReaders in the market.
Pandigital – This digital photo frame company has moved into the eBook market. They created a color eReader that also functions as an Android multi-media tablet.
Lastly, most eReaders offer software applications that are available on the discussed platforms. There are a couple of standouts that do not need a physical eBook reader and exist only as an app.
iBook – An eReader app compatible with Apple products like the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. When it comes to eBooks, Apple doesn’t have a specialized reader but it is a compelling presence in the eBook industry with an internet bookstore from which readers can download digital books.
Overdrive – The Overdrive Media Console allows eBook enthusiasts to enjoy books on all popular desktop and mobile devices, including Windows, Mac, iPod, iPad, Sony Reader, Nook, and Android. This groups is the leading multichannel marketer of eBooks and audiobooks.
AuthorHouse, an imprint of Author Solutions, is the leading provider of self-publishing and marketing services for authors around the globe. We have helped more than 40,000 writers publish over 60,000 titles and are committed to providing the highest level of customer service in book publishing.
Author: Jared D Silverstone
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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