Quote:
Originally Posted by conan50
Google. Only Google at this point could truly knockdown Amazon, and it would be a tough fight. Android is everywhere that Amazon isn't. Android = Google Books. You can pick up cheap Android phones and tablets anywhere now, and they all come with Google Books. Can you imagine if Google quit treating Books like the red-headed stepchild? If they beefed up their bookstore to match Amazon's catalog, if they pushed book sales, and especially if they made it attractive to authors rather than an obstacle course to get books listed? I'm not convinced they will ever get serious about this, so yes, it is almost game over with Amazon becoming the defacto ebook store. It would take a herculean effort and I don't see anyone who is willing to do it.
One other thing comes to mind--if Google and Kobo joined forces, or if Google bought Kobo outright, that would be an awesome combination. Google has the reach, Kobo has the ability to sell and promote ebooks as well as a lineup of e-ink devices. That would give Amazon pause.
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Android is a lot of places and if google got serious they could make waves.
But last I heard Samsung (has it changed?) was preloading Kindle on most of their phones and tablets. Except the ones they are selling through B&N. That cuts down on Google's clout a bit.
Amazon also has a lot of preload deals with cellphone carriers.
As for Google buying Kobo, it is a good fit but a better (and cheaper) fit would be Nook. Much bigger mindshare among mainstream buyers.