Ebook Go-To Guide | PCMag.com


This primer covers the current ebook ecosystem, from the hardware to the software to where to shop for freebies and best sellers.
Once upon a time—like two years ago—electronic books (ebooks) were strictly for die-hard bibliophiles, those dedicated enough to spend extra time in front of a computer screen to read a book on the cheap, or to make an investment in an over-priced ebook reader. In the last year, apps for mobile phones and an explosion of ever-cheaper ebook hardware has changed all that, creating a hugely competitive ebook market. In the first eight months of 2010, ebooks made up 9 percent of total consumer book sales, according to the Association of American Publishers (AAP), and Amazon now sells more ebooks than hardcovers.

It should come as no surprise that, spurred by this growth and the fact that downloading a books is cheaper than printing and shipping, book sellers want more ebook readers out there to facilitate selling more ebooks. Prices are being slashed regularly on the big name readers, such as Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook. Hardware is getting great updates (like long overdue Wi-Fi support), and software apps are evolving constantly to improve not only the ebook reading experience but the process of shopping for ebooks, as well.In this story, I'll cover just about every aspect of the ebook world that exists today for consumers—the stores, the readers (both hardware and software), and other things you may not have considered (hint: where to find free books).

If you've been unable to decide which reader is right for you, or if you already have one, this guide may help simplify your purchasing and/or make your reading experience more pleasurable.

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