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Originally Posted by pilotbob
Well said, I agree with your analysis. Although what I don't understand is why buy Mobipocket and then turn around and create a close system that uses a different file format and delivery model? That just didn't make sense to me... unless they plan to shut down Mobipocket.BOb
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I don’t see what the mystery is. In effect, Amazon control the independent hardware market by owning Mobisoft and insisting on exclusive DRM deals with new manufacturers. If you want protected Mobi books on your device – and of course you do – then sign here and agree not to use other protected formats. Meanwhile they’ll be competing with you in the hardware market, selling the same files slightly cheaper. Heads I win, tails you lose.
The only possible alternative route is if the publishers put their collective foot down and insisted on a single DRM standard to which all hardware had to conform. But they won’t do it and, in the not too distant future, the existing publishing houses will be irrelevant anyway. Who needs them in the age of print on demand (via Amazon) and self-publish ebooks (via guess who).