Quote:
Originally Posted by JSWolf
It's no more difficult to find Kobo online then it is to find Kindle online. So you don't have to actively seek out Kobo.
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I agree that Kobo is easy enough to find online by going directly to the Kobo website, and anyone that researches "ereaders" on Google will find reviews that include Kobo (but most of those will list PW as "Best Value", although I often see Kobo in the #2 spot). I think the main issue, in the US at least, it's not a brand most people are familiar with. For the average person, Kindle is synonymous with e-readers. People have had experience picking up and using a Kindle at Best Buy, Target, office supply stores, some cell phone stores, and Amazon mall kiosks (especially prevalent during holiday shopping season). Since Walmart doesn't stock Kobo's in store (and even when they did the displays were hidden and unkempt), people can only hold a Kobo if they have a friend with one or by putting down cash up front. A little advertising support from Rakuten could go a long way in helping people realize they have more options than Kindle. Heck--I signed up for the Kobo promotions e-mail list hoping to get one on sale and they didn't even notify me the Clara HD was on sale for Father's Day. I found that out by reading this forum (which I find a great resource--so thanks to all who contribute).