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Amazon competitor Bookshop.org says Kobo eReader support will happen this yearafter all
Bookshop.org, a competitor to Amazon, confirms that support for Kobo eReaders will occur later this year, after initial delays. This partnership aims to enable Kobo users to purchase e-books from local independent bookstores through an integration that respects digital rights management requirements, fulfilling a promise to support the indie bookshop community.
Key points
- Bookshop.org's partnership with Kobo was initially scheduled for 2025 but moved to 2026 before being delayed indefinitely.
- Recent updates indicate that support for Kobo eReaders is now expected later this year.
- CEO Andy Hunter emphasized the need for careful planning regarding business terms and engineering resources for the integration.
- Kobo users can read DRM-free books and access library books via Overdrive despite previous purchase limitations.
- Alternative e-readers, like Boox and Meebook, could support Bookshop.org's app for e-book purchases.
Why it matters
- This news highlights the ongoing shift towards supporting local independent bookstores amidst the dominance of Amazon.
- As of 2025, trends indicate increased consumer demand for e-book access while supporting local businesses, aligning with growing environmental concerns over physical book production.
The anticipated integration of Bookshop.org with Kobo eReaders represents a significant advancement in supporting local bookstores, catering to the desires of readers who value both convenience and community connections.