Skimming information studies, some optimists could assume they’ll quickly be capable of ship their present Kobo, Apple, or Nook books to Kindles since these different manufacturers use ePub.
However DRM in lots of instances will nonetheless get in the way in which—even with Amazon’s Ship to Kindle function having the ability as of late 2022 to transform ePub to a Kindle format.
So right here’s a query. Might the anti-DRM motion make the most of this buyer confusion? Let’s remind ebookers that DRM, not format, could now be the only impediment to enjoyment of their earlier purchases on many various units.
The longer ebooks are round, the extra individuals have invested in DRM-tainted ebooks (hundreds of {dollars} in some instances). In order that bodes effectively for the anti-DRM motion when customers discover they will’t immediately switch the books to Kindles or different units with out fuss.
In the meantime individuals can verify guide listings within the Amazon and Kobo shops and elsewhere to see—earlier than shopping for—if they’ve DRM. On Amazon, search for “Simultaneous machine utilization : Limitless.”
Enlarged, right here’s the file-related info within the Kobo itemizing for a current thriller of mine:
As for present books you personal, you’ll be able to attempt calling them up in Calibre or one other multi-format app to see if DRM would get in the way in which. Or you’ll be able to simply attempt Ship to Kindle as soon as ePub conversion is in place.
For sure, it is going to be useful to convey your individual anti-DRM sentiments to authors, publishers, and literary brokers. Both no DRM or watermarking can be higher. Think about having the ability to purchase most any books within the Kindle retailer or others with out worrying about DRM! To Amazon’s credit score, it’s like Kobo and doesn’t make DRM obligatory. However most giant publishers stubbornly use DRM although it’s a menace to our property rights or what ought to be our property rights (DRMed ebooks can’t be really owned within the conventional sense).
Element #1: Bear in mind, Kindles nonetheless received’t be capable of learn ePub immediately–at the least not based mostly on what we all know to this point. Please, Amazon, give us native ePub, at the least on apps and newer units, with out want for conversion.
Particulars #2: DRM, alas, does make sense for libraries utilizing the one-checkout-at-a-time mannequin which treats ebooks like paper books.
Element #3: Outrageously, it’s technically unlawful to avoid DRM even for private functions—sure, nonpiracy use (the place you’re not sharing a guide). This wants to vary!
Featured picture credit score: Karen Rustad, Claremont, California. CC licensed. This can be a 2007 picture. The battle goes on!
