Thread: Kindle or EPUB?
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Old 10-28-2010, 12:00 PM   #132
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Quote:
Originally Posted by James_Wilde View Post
.... It's the only genuinely open source format, and just about every ereader except the Kindle supports it. ...
No it's not, PDF is and that is supported by 100% of the devices out today.

Also if ePUB is so open try reading an ePub purchased on B&N with your Sony Reader, or a book purchased from the Apple's book store on your nook/Sony reader.

As long as the ePUB standard allows different DRM schemes on ePUB each ePUB+DRM is a completely different format.

Quote:
Originally Posted by James_Wilde View Post
I just can't understand Amazon's refusal to support Epub. I suppose it's simply trying to tie their customers to buying ebooks through them. In the long run, I'm convinced that you're going to get a wider choice by opting for epub.
To support ePUB they lose money and control.

They own the MOBI standard that means that they have complete control over the format and do not have to listen to a commity.

Second if they add ePUB support then they have to deal with the multitude of support issues with a format that does not generate them money. People will expect the same level of functionality the MOBI/TOPAZ, and PDF.

Since they do not have any control over the format issues with ePUB generated books will also generate support issues.

Last with all the different DRMs out there. Even if they claim they do not support ePUB + DRM, customers will demand support, or continue to call support with regards to DRM related issues.

I just does not make any business sense.

And for those who say 'Amazon lost my business' because they don't support ePUB, well look at the numbers and they continue to dominate the market because book price, selection, and convenience are what most people care about not format.





Quote:
Originally Posted by James_Wilde View Post
But I don't think the Kindle can maintain its lead in the long run without embracing epub.
I actually agree with you here, but only when ePUB either mandates 1 DRM scheme or completely abandons DRM.

But ePUB still needs a lot more improvement before it becomes universally usable.

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