Quote:
Originally Posted by Yoshi 1080
@amjb: Adobe ePub != ePub
ePub is an open standard and I believe it to have a bright future. However, I agree with your opinion on Adobe ePub (ADE). The main problem I see is the ease of use. Kindle is stupidly simple to use, and the same applies to other DRM systems like B&N and Apple’s Fairplay. ADE however is, at least in my opinion, a pain in the ass. The hassles with the Adobe ID, with downloading an ADE file before being able to download the actual eBook, basically the whole process is just plain horrible. It doesn't matter if there are several compatible online stores and eReaders out there which support it: If Amazon does the same, but in a much more elegant and easy-to-use way, then all this variety on Adobe’s part is worth absolutely nothing. Adobe would definitely benefit from an iPad app, but I don't think it would be that important. I think they have much bigger issues to stay competitive.
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Great point, but I am coming at it from a marketing angle. Most books sold will be current bestsellers, and therefore have DRM. I think Amazon are going to do well in that market, very cheap dedicated device, with software (which syncs your place mark!) on every last smartphone, BB, iPad etc.
I haven't really played with the iBooks store (and I am a big Apple fan), although I agree iBooks as an app is great. I could see both ADEPT withering (Sony look like they are losing interest, certainly not competing on price of eReaders is fatal, and they are mainly HW, not content, people - at least in this market), and Apple never quite taking the mantle from Amazon.
I love ePub - for a start (when I've liberated it) I can add a nice cover for iBooks, correct typos etc. I just think the buying masses will go the simple route, and the buying masses will swamp the MR base.
All imho of course - but fascinating times.
amjb