Understanding eBooks + eReader Devices
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Understanding the eBook World: for eBook authors and publishers eReader hardware, software & eBook file formats explained Tanya Euler: Artifex Marketing Studio
ABSTRACT A brief overview of the key players in the eBook world – eReading hardware devices, eReader software, eBook file formats plus an introduction to Digital Rights Management and distribution channels. EDITION November 2010
Understanding eBooks + eReader Devices
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Table of Contents eBooks – An Overview.................................................................................. 3 A Brief History of eBooks ............................................................................................................3
eReader Hardware Devices......................................................................... 4 Dedicated eReaders ................................................................................................................4 Tablets.........................................................................................................................................5 Desktop Computers and Netbooks ........................................................................................5 Smart Phones and Androids.....................................................................................................6
eBook Reading Software.............................................................................. 6 Adobe Acrobat Reader: www.adobe.com ..........................................................................6 Adobe Digital Editions Reader: www.adobe.com ...............................................................6 Aldiko: www.aldiko.com...........................................................................................................7 Blio: www.blio.com.au ..............................................................................................................7 Calibre: www.calibre-ebook.com ..........................................................................................7 Kindle: www.amazon.com/kindle ...........................................................................................7 Kobo: www.koboereader.com ...............................................................................................7 Mobipocket: www.mobipocket.com .....................................................................................8 MS Reader: www.microsoft.com/reader ...............................................................................8 Nook: www.barnesandnoble.com .........................................................................................8 Vook: www.vook.com ..............................................................................................................8
eBook File Formats ...................................................................................... 11 PDF ............................................................................................................................................11 ePUB ..........................................................................................................................................12 MOBI..........................................................................................................................................12 XML............................................................................................................................................12 LIT ...............................................................................................................................................13 PDB ............................................................................................................................................13
Digital Rights Management........................................................................ 13 eBook Distribution Channels ...................................................................... 14 iBookstore .................................................................................................................................14 Mobipocket..............................................................................................................................14 Barnes & Noble ........................................................................................................................14 Kobo Books...............................................................................................................................15 Amazon (Kindle) ......................................................................................................................15
eBook Conversion Software & Services .................................................... 15 Blio .............................................................................................................................................15 Calibre ......................................................................................................................................16
eBook Layout Tips ....................................................................................... 16 Using the right tools .................................................................................................................16 Well Designed Covers .............................................................................................................16 Well Designed Content Pages...............................................................................................17
eBooks – The Future .................................................................................... 19 Conclusion - Our Recommendations ....................................................... 19
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eBooks – An Overview Many understand an eBook to be a PDF file that can be read on a computer, providing it has Adobe Acrobat Reader installed. However, the rise of mobile computing, net books, iPads, tablet PCs and the use of smart phones, and now android phones, has brought to consumers a number of options when choosing a reading device. This in turn, has generated a number of options in eBook file formats, with each reader being compatible with some but not others. Before a publisher or author begins producing their eBooks, it is wise to have a sound understanding of the different file formats, reading devices and distribution channels available and how your market uses or interacts with each of these.
A Brief History of eBooks Following is a brief history of the eBook so you can further understand how and why it has evolved. 1998: eBook Readers first appear on the market. 2003: The demand for eBooks is poor compared to that of traditional printed books. 2004: eBook Reader technology improves with Sony’s release of their eReader. 2007: Amazon.com (online book retailer) launches their eBook Reader “Kindle” available only through amazon.com October 2009: Barnes & Noble releases its own eBook Reader – “Nook”. November 2009: A Canadian secondary school supplies its students with Sony eBook Readers instead of textbooks. It is the first school in the world to do this. December 2009: eBooks outsell physical books on amazon.com for the first time ever. January 2010: Many new e-Readers from Asus, Sony, Plastic Logic, Samsung and more enter the market. April 2010: Apple debuts the iPad. Their iBooks app “iBookstore” sells half a million eBooks in less than a month. May 2010: Penguin Publishing and Amazon have a falling out, and Penguin pulls its eBooks from the Amazon Book Store instead establishing with Apple. October 2010: Google Editions is an upcoming program that will allow consumers to easily purchase and read digital editions of books. It will offer publishers and authors a platform to sell books directly from their website, while Google host the book and checkout process. Google Editions will potentially change the current eBook distribution methodology.
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Some of the major players in today’s eBook industry offer a three-fold solution – hardware, software and a distribution platform. There are 4 major factors that come into play when considering eBook publications. 1. 2. 3. 4.
eReader hardware device eBook reading software and apps eBook file formats eBook distribution channels
eReader Hardware Devices The eReader is the electronic device designed primarily for the purpose of reading digital books called “eBooks”. The eReader market is a constantly shifting landscape. 2010 sees users awaiting releases from Barnes and Noble for a full colour eReader and for Google to launch their online eBook store Google Editions. Each eReader device will support different file formats. For example Amazon’s Kindle does not support the industry standard ePUB file format. Hence, it is important to be aware of the eReader device your customers might most likely use so to understand the best eBook file format to adopt for your publications. eBooks can be read on personal computers, dedicated eReaders and now on mobile devices. There is a wide range of devices within each eReader category and this is likely to grow as the eBook popularity increases. Below is a brief overview of some of the key players in the eReader market:
Dedicated eReaders eReaders are finally gaining momentum and becoming more available in Australia. While these devices will occasionally offer non-eBook features, eg web browsing, their primary function is to store and read eBooks. Most dedicated eReaders present in black/white only, however colour support is likely to evolve (the Nook has a colour screen). They are generally compact and lightweight. Some examples of dedicated eReader devices are: 1. Kindle: The Kindle is a wireless reading device owned and sold by Amazon.com. Of the most popular eReaders, the Kindle is the only one that cannot read files in the ePUB format (an emerging industry standard eBook file type). Instead it uses a proprietary eBook format AZW, also developed by Amazon, and MOBI by Mobipocket. An ePUB to MOBI converter is available. The Kindle also does not enable the user to buy eBooks from other online eBook stores (only from Amazon). In 2010 Amazon announced a software development kit for 3rd party programmers. Kindle specific apps are now being developed in the same way iPhone and Android apps are available.
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2. Sony Reader Touch Edition: Sony’s 3rd generation of eBook is arguably considered the most feature-rich to date with extensive file format support. It does not include wi-fi or 3G as found in other eReader devices. It will read the industry-standard ePUB, PDF, Text, RTF and BBeB formats. Its open format policy means you can purchase, borrow or source eBooks for free from a wide range of places – without the drawbacks of Digital Rights Management. 3. Kobo eReader: Kobo is a wireless eReader that includes 100 classic eBooks pre-installed. Kobo is becoming a key player in the eBook market, offering a solution in all the key factors of eReader hardware, software and distribution (bookstores). 4. Nook: Nook is another key player where a reader device is aligned with an online distribution store. Owned by Barnes & Noble, Nook offers an eReader Device (NookBook), eReader software and bookstore. The NookBook is available in colour screen and supports secure and nonsecure PDF, ePUB and eReader file formats.
Tablets Tablets are mini portable computers with touch screen technology as the primary input method (instead of a keyboard or mouse). They are available in most operating systems (Windows, Mac and Linux). Tablets have been available for the past 10 years, however the release of the Apple iPad has made them popular, so that many electronic manufacturers are now releasing their tablet version, to gain their piece of the “Apple pie”. 1. Apple iPad: is an advanced eReader, able to do a lot more than the standard eReader, as users are also able to use it to experience the web, emails, photos and videos. Plus there are thousands of apps available with more being made every day. It is fairly safe to assume that traditional eReaders will gradually follow in the iPad’s footsteps. If you buy eBooks from Apple they can only be viewed on iPads and iPhones. 2. Samsung, LG, Acer, Dell and Toshiba are all expected to release their tablet versions as this report is being written (November 2010)
Desktop Computers and Netbooks At this stage, most eBook reading still takes place on the laptop or desktop computer and it is expected that this trend will continue for some time. Most eReader software is available in a PC or Mac format. The benefit of reading eBooks on a computer is their full feature compatibility (video, audio, animation etc) but the fallback is their lack of portability – hence the rise of eReader and Smart Phone hardware.
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Smart Phones and Androids 2010 has seen the release of a new breed of mobile phone – the “Smart Phone”. This new breed offers advanced connectivity and computing ability compared to its predecessors. Whereby in the past mobile phones were defined by the hardware, the Smart Phone sees software play a near equal part. The smart phone runs a complete operating system platform that will allow certain applications that is compatible to that operating system to be installed. For the eBook publisher this means some eBook formats will be compatible on certain operating systems (and Smart Phones) but not others.
eBook Reading Software The eReader Software comes in the form of installable software, or “apps”, required for the various hardware devices to be able to play/read eBooks. For example, Acrobat Reader software is required to read a PDF file. In most cases the software is available at no cost, however there may be some instances where a purchase is required. eReader software is often compatible for some but not all devices. Some eReader software may be proprietary software and therefore usable only on its eReader hardware counterpart.
Adobe Acrobat Reader: www.adobe.com • • • • • •
The first widely used Reader software The global standard for document sharing Can be used on all platforms (PC, Mac, Linux) Acrobat Reader currently does not allow the reader to reduce or manipulate the type/font Users with small screen devices need to do a lot of scrolling Only supports PDF files
Adobe Digital Editions Reader: www.adobe.com Adobe Digital Editions is an Internet application that aids in acquiring, managing and reading eBooks. Once installed it can be used without being online. Adobe Digital Editions differs to Adobe Reader in that it is focused towards eBooks only, while Adobe Reader performs other functions such as interactive forums, digital signatures and other knowledge workflows. • • • • • •
An eBook reading software built using Adobe Flash Supports PDF, ePUB and Flash-based content Uses proprietary Digital Rights Management - used to control document sharing across devices PC and Mac compatible Supports the Sony Reader Requires minimum version 9 Adobe Flash Player
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Aldiko: www.aldiko.com • • • •
An eBook reading application for Android phones Free application with a donation version if you would like to support the developer Supports ePUB eBook format Cannot use Adobe Digital Editions
Blio: www.blio.com.au • • • • • • •
An eBook reader determined to display fonts, pictures and layout just as intended in printed books Allows you to sync 5 devices to your BookVault so you can access your eBook from multiple devices (internet connection required) Can read the book to you, highlighting words as it goes Supports audio and video for enhanced eBooks Currently only supports windows platforms but apps for iPad, iPhone and Androids are planned for release Supports ePUB and XPS formats Blio offers a built in Bookstore
Calibre: www.calibre-ebook.com • • • • •
Free and open-source eBook library management tool Can convert from and to a large number of varying eBook formats Supports a variety of eBook Reader devices Due to its open source nature it can not support eBooks with DRM Has a built-in web server that allows you to access your eBook collection using a browser from any computer anywhere in the world
Kindle: www.amazon.com/kindle • • • •
Supports PDF, HTML, TXT, RTF, PRC, MOBI (Amazon preferred) file formats Is not ePUB friendly, presumably to force users to buy from the Kindle store only Allows eBooks to be shared between Kindle apps with a limit of 6 Integrated with Amazon
Kobo: www.koboereader.com •
• • • •
•
Offers an end-to-end eBook solution. Starting with the eReader hardware, eReader software (which allows the eReader to be used on other devices) and the Kobo bookstore for online purchasing Free application with a donation version if you would like to support the developer eReader software can be installed on Smart Phones, dedicated eReaders, tablets and computers The Kobo goal is to deliver any book on any device You can now use Kobo on the iPhone, iPad, BlackBerry, Palm webOS, and Google Android devices, as well as the Sony Reader, Nook & Kobo eReader With Kobo you can start a book on your eReader, then pick up where you left off and read on your computer using the Kobo Desktop Application
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Mobipocket: www.mobipocket.com • • • •
Supports PDF, HTML, TXT, RTF, PRC, MOBI (Amazon preferred) file formats Allows user to read eBook on up to 4 reading devices at the same time. Can deactivate one device so to add another. With Mobi compressed format, an average eBook size is only 500 KB Integrated with Mobipocket bookstore
MS Reader: www.microsoft.com/reader • • • • •
Microsoft Reader software developed for reading eBooks on PC environments (PC, notebooks, Pocket PC) Allows the reader to leave notes, bookmarks and change font size Uses a smart navigation system that remembers where the reader last finished Uses ClearType technology that enhances LCD screen clarity Only reads one eBook format – LIT, short for literature, based on the XMLbased OEB Publication Standard.
Nook: www.barnesandnoble.com • • •
Supports secure and non-secure PDF, ePUB and eReader file formats Nook eReader software is unique in that it allows customers to share certain e-Books with other Nook software users for up to 14 days Allows users to sync their info across iPad, iPhone, Android, NOOK, PC & more devices
Vook: www.vook.com •
• • • • • • •
Vook combines eBooks, video, Internet and social networking into a unified package. Users can read the story, watch video, and connect with the author and friends through social networking all without changing applications. Available as both an internet, browser based application and as an app for the Apple suite of products (iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch) No software downloads or installation required to use the browser version Flash player is required A high speed internet connection will also be required for viewing video Internet connection is required for the browser-based version. Mobile versions of Vook can be enjoyed anywhere. File sizes are large due to the inclusion of video files Reviews on the blended multimedia, eBook format have been mixed to date
The following chart outliness the leading eBook reading devices, the eReader software available for that device and then the eBook file formats that can be read on that device. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and is subject to ongoing change as the eBook industry and its hardware and software continues to evolve.
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eReader Device EREADERS
Kindle eReader
Sony Touch PRS-600 (Sony)
Kobo eReader
Nook (Barnes & Noble)
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eReader Software
Supported File Formats
Online Bookstore
Kindle
PDF, HTML, TXT, RTF, PRC, MOBI
Amazon
Mobipocket
MOBI, PRC, AZW
Mobipocket
Calibre
ePUB, FB2, OEB, LIT, LRF, MOBI, PDB, PML, RB, PDF, SNB, TCR, TXT
Kobo
ePUB (DRM), PDF, Adobe DRM
Kobo Books
Sony Proprietary eReader software
Secured DRM: ePUB (DRM), PDF (DRM), BBeB (Sony), Book (PRS DRM) Unsecured: ePub, BBeB Book, PDF5, TXT, RTF
ReaderStore GoogleBooks
Calibre
ePUB, FB2, OEB, LIT, LRF, MOBI, PDB, PML, RB, PDF, SNB, TCR, TXT
Kobo
ePUB (DRM), PDF, Adobe DRM
Calibre
ePUB, FB2, OEB, LIT, LRF, MOBI, PDB, PML, RB, PDF, SNB, TCR, TXT
Nook
Secured: eReader PDB (DRM), ePUB (DRM), PDF (DRM), Unsecured: eReader PDB, ePUB, PDF
Barnes & Noble
Kobo
ePUB
Kobo Books
Calibre
ePUB, FB2, OEB, LIT, LRF, MOBI, PDB, PML, RB, PDF, SNB, TCR, TXT
Kindle
PDF, HTML, TXT, RTF, PRC, MOBI
Amazon
Kobo
ePUB (DRM), PDF, Adobe DRM
Kobo Books
Calibre
ePUB, FB2, OEB, LIT, LRF, MOBI, PDB, PML, RB, PDF, SNB, TCR, TXT
Nook
Secured: eReader PDB (DRM), ePUB (DRM), PDF (DRM), Unsecured: eReader PDB, ePUB, PDF
Barnes & Noble
Vook
XML
Vook, iTunes
Kindle
PDF, HTML, TXT, RTF, PRC, MOBI
Amazon
Mobipocket
MOBI, PRC
Mobipocket
Kobo
ePUB (DRM), PDF, Adobe DRM
Kobo Books
Acrobat Reader
Nook
Secured: eReader PDB (DRM), ePUB (DRM), PDF (DRM), Unsecured: eReader PDB, ePUB, PDF
MS Reader
LIT
Blio
ePUB, XLS
Vook
XML
Vook, iTunes
Kindle
PDF, HTML, TXT, RTF, PRC, MOBI
Amazon
Kobo
ePUB (DRM), PDF, Adobe DRM
Kobo Books
Nook
Secured: eReader PDB (DRM), ePUB (DRM), PDF (DRM), Unsecured: eReader PDB, ePUB, PDF
Barnes & Noble
Acrobat Reader
Vook
XML
Kobo Books
TABLETS iPad Tablet (Apple)
COMPUTERS
PC (Microsoft)
Mac (Apple)
Barnes & Noble
Vook, iTunes
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SMART PHONES Android (Google)
Blackberry (Blackberry)
Windows 7 Mobile / Pocket PC (Microsoft)
iPhone (Apple)
Kobo
ePUB (DRM), PDF, Adobe DRM
Kobo Books
Calibre
ePUB, FB2, OEB, LIT, LRF, MOBI, PDB, PML, RB, PDF, SNB, TCR, TXT
Acrobat Reader
Nook
Secured: eReader PDB (DRM), ePUB (DRM), PDF (DRM), Unsecured: eReader PDB, ePUB, PDF
Barnes & Noble
Kindle
PDF, HTML, TXT, RTF, PRC, MOBI
Amazon
Kobo
ePUB (DRM), PDF, Adobe DRM
Kobo Books
Nook
Secured: eReader PDB (DRM), ePUB (DRM), PDF (DRM), Unsecured: eReader PDB, ePUB, PDF
Barnes & Noble
Mobipocket
MOBI, PRC
Mobipocket
Acrobat Reader
MS Reader
LIT
Blio
ePUB, XLS
Kobo
ePUB (DRM), PDF, Adobe DRM
Aldiko
ePUB
iReader
TXT, CHM, eReader, Mobi
Nook
Secured: eReader PDB (DRM), ePUB (DRM), PDF (DRM), Unsecured: eReader PDB, ePUB, PDF
Barnes & Noble
Kindle
PDF, HTML, TXT, RTF, PRC, MOBI
Amazon
Calibre
ePUB, FB2, OEB, LIT, LRF, MOBI, PDB, PML, RB, PDF, SNB, TCR, TXT
Vook
XML
Kobo Books
Vook
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eBook File Formats An eBook is a digital file made up of text and image and is read using an electronic device. Just as an image can have a number of different file formats – jpeg, gif, png, bmp, tiff etc, an eBook can also come in a number of different file formats. There is currently in excess of 50 different possible formats for today’s eBook. This proliferation of formats creates confusion for most users and potential publishers. Therefore we have chosen to profile what other eBook publishers and distribution outlets consider the most common and widely accepted formats:
PDF • • •
•
•
•
The Adobe Acrobat PDF is a familiar format to most consumers PDF is the best format for eBooks where layout (images, special fonts, charts, images etc) is critical to the readability and enjoyment of the book Support for PDF exists for almost every computer platform and handheld device. However, use with portable mobile devices is not the best due to their smaller screen size and the PDFs inability to scale and adjust text flow well. Some devices have problems with PDF since most content available is scaled for A4 format, which is not easy to read when reduced to fit on small screens Some eReaders can reflow some PDF documents, to accommodate the small screen. Adobe has addressed this issue by adding a reflow facility to its Acrobat Reader software. For this to work the document must be marked for reflowing when it is first created. This means existing PDFs will not reflow. Unlike other eBook formats, PDF doesn't allow the reader to customize the font size, font style or line spacing PROS – Adobe Acrobat PDF • Can be read on majority of operating systems • Visual appearance consistent across platforms • Supports images, links and to a lesser extent video and audio • Searchable text • Bookmarking and notes capability • Printable (if not disabled) • Acrobat Reader software widely available
CONS • Text doesn’t reflow well so large amounts of scrolling sometimes required • Larger file size • Adobe software needed to create PDF file
PROS – Adobe eBook PDF • Similar to normal PDF but formatted for the smaller screen • Smaller file size • Suited to smaller screen sizes (mobile devices)
CONS • Requires web browser software • Existence of 2 PDF types (Reader and Digital Editions) is causing confusion
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ePUB • • • • • • • •
ePUB is the file extension of an XML format for “re-flowable” digital books and publications ePUB is essentially a zip format containing XML, container and packaging files An open industry eBook format that is gaining increased support Made to be read with Adobe’s Digital Editions software Is becoming considered the “industry standard” in eBook formats Adobe InDesign can be used to create ePUB files The biggest drawback of ePUB is its lack of standard Digital Rights Management (DRM) a mechanism used to protect eBooks from piracy Firefox users can download ePUB Reader, a free browser addon, and read ePUB format in the Firefox browser PROS • Becoming the industry standard • Text flows to suit reading device screen size • Suitable for most reading devices
CONS • Different DRM options means a non-standard Digital Rights
MOBI • • • •
•
Suited to most PDA’s - Palm Series, Pocket PC, Windows Mobile, Blackberry, Smart Phones, iLiad, as well as Windows PCs The preferred format for Amazon’s Kindle eBooks Based on HTML, Mobi is a reflowable format only; position of images and text cannot be fixed, therefore it is has formatting limitations Mobipocket Reader is used to read the Mobi file format. It is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, Palm, Blackberry, Windows Mobile, Symbian & Amazon Kindle. Mobipocket eBook Store is the way to browse, buy & download eBooks PROS • Designed for mobile devices • Text flows to suit reading device screen size.
CONS • Formatting limitations • Doesn’t allow printing (?) • Authoring software can be expensive
XML • •
XML is a common markup language used for structured content bringing together all the files, folders and images that are used to create the book. Few publishers would use XML to package and sell an eBook as a standalone form
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LIT • • • • •
Short for literature it is based on the XML-based OEB Publication Standard Only compatible with the proprietary MS Reader Not suited to eBooks heavy with charts, images, graphs etc Smart navigation system remembers where the reader last finished Allows reader to leave notes, bookmarks, change font size PROS • Text flows to suit reading device screen size. • Gives user mark-up control (notes, bookmarking etc)
CONS • Formatting limitations • eReader compatibility is limited only to MS Reader. • Not suitable for image heavy eBooks. • Only PC based.
PDB •
PalmDoc is a format primarily used on Palm Pilot devices, but software readers are available for PalmOS, Symbian OS, Windows Mobile Pocket PC/Smartphone, desktop Windows, and Macintosh.
Digital Rights Management Digital Rights Management (DRM) is the term used for software technology with the purpose to control the access and usage of digital content – such as eBooks, music and computer games. eBook publishers would typically use DRM to restrict sharing, printing or copying abilities of the file. eBook publishers will often use DRM to limit the number of devices a book may be used on. Digital Rights Management has a controversial background. Those pro DRM insist it is required to protect copyright holders of unauthorised replication of their works. While others maintain that DRM is too strict and that it restricts the use in ways that go beyond the scope of existing copyright laws. There are currently 4 main DRM themes: 1. Adobe Content Server (ePUB & PDF) – can be read by some third party eReaders and Adobe Digital Editions software. 2. Apple (ePUB) – can only be read by Apple iBooks on iOS devices. 3. Barnes & Noble (ePUB & Palm) – can be read by general eReaders. 4. Amazon (mobi) – can be read by Amazon’s mobipocket and Topaz eBooks. Digital Rights Management has a lot of confusion surrounding it. When a reader buys a paper-based book, it is theirs, they “own” it (though not copyright), they can lend it to anyone to read for themselves and they can then sell it if wanted. DRM guidelines can vary from publisher to publisher. They can set a limit on the
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number of times you can download it, a limit on the number of devices it can be read on, shared with others etc…all things to consider before publishing your own eBook and certainly before using any of the popular third-party distribution channels. eBook DRM can also have geo-location limitations whereby an Australian reader may not be able to buy a book from the US or UK. eBook Reader devices and eReader software may only read eBooks that have DRM applied OR they may only read eBooks that do not have any DRM applied (or both). As there is currently no DRM ‘standard’, each case will depend on the intricacies of the application owner/developer. Hence, the DRM can cause an eBook to not be universally compatible across all devices and applications.
eBook Distribution Channels Digital bookstores are growing significantly, with several options now available to help get your book out to a wider audience. Some digital bookstores require you to work with a third party aggregator with whom they have an established arrangement. Others will allow individuals to submit their own eBook.
iBookstore iBooks is an app for iPad. More than an eReader it also works as the bookstore. Apple previously had a deal set with lulu.com as a third party publisher, however they have now enabled individuals to submit their own content. Applications are reviewed and it is not an immediate turn around, so allow time. You need an Apple iTunes account to apply. Some benefits of using a third party agent are that they acquire the ISBN on your behalf, ensure the ePUB file passes checks, and you can possibly be paid faster as Apple will not meet payment until sales meet earning thresholds in various regions. https://itunesconnect.apple.com/WebObjects/iTunesConnect.woa/wa/apply
Mobipocket Since September 2009, Mobipocket no longer opens new accounts for publishers to sell titles through the Kindle Store or MobiPocket.com. New publishers with a US address and bank account can sign up to sell eBooks in the Kindle store via the self-service digital text platform at http://dtp.amazon.com (See Amazon Kindle)
Barnes & Noble Barnes & Noble is a paper book retailer, with NookBooks a special category for eBooks. “Pubit” is a self-service, online portal where publishers and authors can upload their eBooks and make them available for sale through the Barnes & Noble eBookstore. Pubit walks you through creating an account; uploading your eBook file, cover image, product data and tracking your sales and payments. International publishers may use Pubit providing you have the U.S. rights to the content and a U.S. Bank Account, U.S. Credit Card, and U.S. Tax ID. http://pubit.barnesandnoble.com
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Kobo Books Kobo Books offers a competitive vendor commission, based upon your suggested retail price for each sale made on Kobo. You can offer to provide some of your eBook content for free or generate additional revenue by serving ads alongside your work. Kobo uses Adobe Content Server and Adobe Digital Editions to protect both ePUB and PDF files for offline reading and its own DRM for online reading. Kobo only accepts ePUB files for selling in their bookstore. Kobo can take other file formats and convert to ePUB for a nominal fee. http://www.kobobooks.com/companyinfo/authorsnpublishers.html
Amazon (Kindle) Amazon has developed “Digital Text Platform”, a self-publishing tool that helps you format and upload your books for sale in the Kindle store. Naturally, an Amazon account is required. Pricing is in US dollars or UK Sterling. DTP has a useful website offering all the information you would need to know prior to publishing your eBook. https://dtp.amazon.com/mn/signin
You should look into the business model and pricing agreements for each provider as they may differ. It is highly recommended that you decide which eBook format and distribution channel you plan to use prior to the creation of your eBook, as the choice may impact how best to create the eBook file.
eBook Conversion Software & Services There are a number of self-service conversion software kits available to turn existing printed books into eBooks as well as service providers who do it for you.
Blio Blio is an eReader application that partners with Baker & Taylor who handle conversion, encryption and embedding data. A PDF or ePUB file is supplied with metadata for conversion. Blio then provide you with the converted eBook plus some enhancement tools that allow you to further customize the eBook and reader software. However, the enhanced eBook may not be compatible with dedicated eReaders and some other devices. With Blio your book can: • • • • • •
Include text to speech for read-aloud performance Include video, audio clips, or interactive Web pages. Create a computer-generated, multi-character listening experience. Enable social networking within a book. Brand the reader software specifically for a book, series or imprint. Customize research tools, such as web-based research destinations.
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Calibre Calibre supports the conversion of many input formats to many output formats. It is available for free but also has a donate facility to support future development. If you have an existing eBook or printed book and are not concerned about using DRM, and plan to use your own distribution channel (website) rather than those listed in this report – then Calibre may be a good tool for you. •
•
It can convert CBZ, CBR, CBC, CHM, EPUB, FB2, HTML, LIT, LRF, MOBI, ODT, PDF, PRC, PDB, PML, RB, RTF, SNB, TCR, TXT to the following output formats of EPUB, FB2, OEB, LIT, LRF, MOBI, PDB, PML, RB, PDF, SNB, TCR, TXT. It does not support Digital Rights Management (DRM)
eBook Layout Tips There are a number of elements that work together to create a successful eBook. This next section will briefly cover some of those elements you should look out for when developing yours.
Using the right tools Microsoft Word Microsoft Word is not the best tool for creating eBooks – especially enhanced eBooks that might include images, audio, links etc. While recent versions of Word might indicate that it can output XML for eBooks – the output code includes a lot of extraneous code, which can impact the overall quality of the eBook. Adobe InDesign InDesign is the industry standard page layout program for paper-based flyers and books. Recent versions of this program allow exporting to ePUB as well as including some multimedia elements such as flash video and CSS styling. Adobe Flash Flash as an eBook development tool is somewhat questionable. While Flash is undoubtedly the main tool used for creating some of the best media-rich content, the rise of Apple devices and applications and its adoption of HTML5 and CSS over Flash is calling in to question the role Flash will play in the eBook industry.
Well Designed Covers People do judge a book by its cover, so avoid using reusable template designs and stock photography on the front of your eBook. The goal is for your book to stand out from the crowd. The cover serves that purpose, whether seen on a bookshelf or a computer screen. While stock photography has become an affordable and easily accessible choice, the same images are becoming “over-used”. Work towards using unique
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images specific to your content or, at the very least, images that have not been used extensively by other companies and products. The cover goes a long way to create the vital first impression. First impressions help sell, so make sure that the design of your eBook cover presents a professional, quality and credible image.
Well Designed Content Pages This report will not state that the design of the eBook is as important as the content (as some will claim) but the design and layout definitely goes a long way to retaining a happy reader. Poor design can create a frustrated and uninterested reader, before they have even started to read your content. First and foremost, the layout of your eBooks content pages should ensure that the book is readable across the full range of eReader devices and software (or as many as can be made possible). What worked in a printed A5 book is not necessarily going to work on an Android smart phone. Reflowing text according to device size eBook file formats can be split into two categories – fixed layout and reflowable text. The fixed layout format is typically used in printed documents and includes PDF and Postscript files. Text, columns, pictures and charts are placed in a fixed position that cannot be changed by the reader. Reflowable formats are developed for situations where the display size is not necessarily known, for instance, a small smart phone screen or a large computer monitor screen. Therefore the text and images will optimally adapt to the screen size to suit. The reader may also adjust the size of type and the font used. Reflowing text will continue to be one of the key areas of concern for eBook publishers and authors for some time yet. It is the reflow capability of ePUB files that has helped drive it to become the closest thing to an “industry standard” eBook file format. Issues will continue to rise however, for example how best to present a table that has been designed to flow across two printed pages when displayed on a smart phone screen. White space still counts Effective use of white space is an important consideration with printed books, and this still stands for digital books. Many readers may still print your document; so wider margins may still be needed for holding around the edges. Font matters Serif types like Times New Roman or Garamond are considered the easiest to read as the small feet or strokes on each character help define each shapes letter and guide the eye towards the next character. San serif types including Arial or Verdana are generally the most legible of the font families, and are the best choice when reading from a distance. San serif fonts are typically used in headings and signage.
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Best use of line spacing eReader devices, software and file formats (except most PDFs) allow for the user to adjust the font size of their eBook. The default line spacing, called leading, is rarely the best size to use. The space between each line of text helps channel the eye through each line. This space should be increased when the lines of text are longer and/or when using a sans serif font. Spacing between paragraphs should typically equal one and a half line spaces. Hitting the enter key twice is not recommended as it creates too much space disjointing the paragraphs on the page. Using colour Coloured text can be difficult to read – so keep it the standard black, especially for body text. Be considerate of those who may choose to print your eBook by avoiding the use of coloured backgrounds. They can add to the reading difficulty and of course consume valuable printer ink. General rules of thumb Don’t use ALL CAPITALS FOR HEADINGS. While headlines should contrast significantly to the paragraph text, all capital text is difficult to read. Avoid underlining text for the same reason – it makes reading more difficult. There shouldn’t be more than two sentences in a row needing hyphenation. If this is occurring frequently, try reducing the font size. “Widows” and “orphans” is the terminology used for when a word, part of a word or part of a sentence is left isolated on a line at the bottom of the page or at the top of the next page. Avoid one word being on its own on a line and a partial sentence being left over on the following page. Using chapters, chunking and columns Unless your eBook is very short, you should always break the content into sections and chapters. Unlike a paper book, the reader can’t flip through the pages to quickly scan the content, so the table of contents will be used more frequently. Hyperlinking the table of contents to the relevant page is very beneficial for eReaders. Chunking is a term that evolved for better layout of web page content, whereby content was chunked or grouped according to like information. This is typically done with textual devices like bullet points, paragraphs, lists and subheadings. Effective chunking helps the reader make sense of the information provided, increasing the speed of reading and level of understanding. It is particularly essential for content delivered on a screen as people typically read by scanning the page, pulling out key pieces of information, rather than read it sequentially. Do not layout the content using columns as typically seen in newsletters. Readers would need to scroll down the page, then back up, then scroll down again – a happy reader that would not make.
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Images Photographs, illustrations, charts and graphs should only be used when they are relevant to the subject matter discussed on the page. Different eReader devices and software will treat images differently. If you are using stock photos be sure to check the usage and permission guidelines as the agreements may differ for digitally distributed products compared to the printed counterpart. Where possible, vector artwork should be used instead of raster/bitmap images as they scale well and are lower in file size.
eBooks – The Future Audiences are still warming to the concept of using electronic devices to read books, magazines, newspapers, textbooks and the like. However it is almost certain that as new devices like the iPad are released the popularity will grow. Add to this, the role magazine and newspaper publishers will play in the future development of eReading so to maintain growth in their industries – the future of eBooks definitely looks bright. eBooks themselves will also undoubtedly evolve beyond their current status. Enhanced or multimedia eBooks, including audio, video, animation, interactivity within the content, are already entering the market. However, the niche for this product is still small. Many eReaders are still not supporting colour and graphics, though this is already changing with the introduction of tablets like the iPad. It is doubtful that publishers will recoup the cost of adding the extra content (video, audio etc) at this stage – but certainly will be a part of the future of the eBook.
Conclusion - Our Recommendations Believe it or not, this report does not cover the full extent of hardware, software and file formats for the eBook. There are many more proprietary or softwarespecific formats and there will be many more to come. Our suggestion to anyone considering publishing an eBook is to choose the pathway that will allow your eBook to be read by the majority of users and their selected device. Following is a final overview of the formats we would recommend to achieve this:
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ePUB Overview: The ePUB format is the closest to being an industry standard for eBooks. It combines a variety of other technologies and standards (Open eBook, XHTML1.1) to create a solid formatting foundation for eBooks of just about every shape, size and topic. DRM: The most popular DRM option for ePub files is by Adobe Content Server which is used by Sony, Barnes & Noble, and other eBook stores. Apple and Adobe’s ongoing distant relationship sees Apple's iBooks application (iPad) using Apple's own DRM instead, which is not compatible with any other eBook device or application. When considering which DRM technology to use, first know what channels you plan to distribute your eBook through, and perhaps survey current readers to see which devices they use for reading. Devices: ePUB books can be read on Windows and Mac computers with Adobe Digital Editions; most common Sony Readers; iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch; Android systems using Aldiko; and on Linux computers and some other handheld devices using compatible software.
PDF Overview: PDF files are still the most common and familiar format. The problem PDF files have with the modern eBook is that the text in some PDF files cannot reflow to fit the screens of smaller devices like the iPhone, Android and smaller eReaders. This results in a PDF file that, when loaded on a small device, usually can only be read by zooming in, forcing the user to scroll left and right to read all of the text on a line. With PDF files remaining so common, they are often distributed in conjunction with other eBook formats such as ePUB. It is important that the PDF eBook has the same active Table of Contents and Index as your other eBook files, as they will be relied on heavily. DRM: PDF files can be secured with DRM, both with the built-in password option and with Adobe Content Server. Devices: PDF files can be read on almost all devices. They are also supported in Adobe Digital Editions, a free eBook library and reading program available for Windows and Mac. The Kindle DX and Sony's devices also support PDF files natively (without the need to convert the file).
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