Google eBookstore: How Does It Stack Up? Discussion

**Jacqueline Emigh** · 12-08-2010, 11:32 AM

The launch of the Google eBookstore this week breaks new ground against established players such as Amazon and B&N by instituting cross-platform, Web browser-based access to eBooks, some of which are available free of charge to users.

Unlike other major online bookstores, Google’s store doesn't require the use of a dedicated device or local application. Web access is all that is required. However, Google is offering applications for the iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, and Android devices. Google eBooks will also work with eReaders that support the EPUB and PDF standard.

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**treynolds** · 12-08-2010, 03:06 PM

The popular Amazon Kindle uses a proprietary eBook format and it will only work with eBooks purchased through the Amazon bookstore.

This is not true. The Kindle includes a web-browser that will work with the Google Bookstore. The Kindle can in fact, even use ePub books through a third party app: Calibre.

The misinformation of Kindle being restricted to Amazon's ecosystem is untrue and a red-herring...

TR

**Jamison Cush** · 12-08-2010, 03:53 PM

Originally Posted by treynolds

This is not true. The Kindle includes a web-browser that will work with the Google Bookstore. The Kindle can in fact, even use ePub books through a third party app: Calibre.

The misinformation of Kindle being restricted to Amazon's ecosystem is untrue and a red-herring...

TR

This is true, and the point in the article should be more specific. In fact, that line was not included in Jacqueline's original article, but was added during the editing process. I've since made the correction and noted it in the story.

However, I think it's fair to say that the Amazon Kindle is a closed device, just as I think it's fair to say the same about the iPhone, despite the fact that older models can easily be hacked for an Android install. I'll rethink that as soon as Amazon releases its own version of Calibre, or allows me to easily upload books purchased from Borders, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo.

It's a slippery slope... tinkerers are always going to find ways around whatever limitations manufacturers impose, but that rarely affects the vast majority of users who use devices as intended..

The fact is that most Kindle owners will not buy eBooks from the Google eBookstore for use on the Amazon eReader despite the fact that it is technically possible, simply because it's very impractical.