Beyond the Kindle

What is next for the e-book industry?

2009 became the year of the e-reader, and by every indication, the market will continue to grow in 2010.  The question is in which direction?  New companies are coming out with their versions of the e-reader to take on giants Amazon and Sony.  Google is expecting to launch its own e-bookstore service touting the largest selection, and still others are popping up to offer libraries in the cloud.

All these new options are enough to make the most impassioned bibliophile think about selling his bookcases.   But there are inherent differences and associated problems with each product.  Consumer attention will be paid to options like standardized formats, connectivity and DOC conversions; availability of publications and how they will be delivered.

Would you prefer your digital library to live in the cloud, and have the ability to access books from any electronic device connected to the internet?  Would you pay for a service that would provide access to books online for a monthly fee, like movie rentals?  Electronic reading devices have opened up new business possibilities.

It remains to be seen what choices customers will embrace.  New competition is liable to drive down the reader prices, and publishers and providers are likely to find ways to increase their profits.  The increased buzz is liable to restart another reading craze.  And everyone profits from that.