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Originally Posted by AnemicOak
I'd really like to see some proof that they're doing this. Quotes from an author or publisher? Something. Publishers have insisted on DRM since the very beginning of commercial ebooks.
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It's different for each retailer. Initially, B&N didn't have a DRM/no DRM option (this is for self-pub'd). I read on various forums that DRM was applied on all books (trad or self). From what I could tell from readers, this was true. Everything had DRM.
Amazon has had the option to put DRM on/off for KDP authors (self pub) HOWEVER, we heard from various trad authors that they had no choice--now the rumor was varied, sometimes saying Amazon required it of publishers and sometimes it was said the publishers required it. My guess is that for quite some time (and possibly still today) one or both required it of traditionally published books.
There are multiple ways to get a book loaded into Amazon--there are services that do it now so that a book can take advantage of "pre-released" purchases and can qualify for certain promotions. The author pays for these services (these same companies can get the ebook into libraries.) It's my understanding that when using the services, DRM is applied--but I don't know if that is Amazon's requirement or the service/publisher/author choice.
Kobobooks has an option for it and so far as I know is the only retailer where you can change your mind. With B&N and Amazon if you elect to add DRM initially, you cannot ask to have it removed later. I believe the same is true if you select lendable/not lendable, but I'd have to verify that.
Smashwords has never had it. AllRomance...I can't remember. I don't think they even have a selectable option so if they apply it, it's automatic.