Digital Media Platform Radio's 2014 Forecast for eBooks, e-Readers, and Digital Publishing: Major Trends to Watch Out For
In the latest episode of the Good e-Reader Radio Show, host Michael Kozlowski, editor-in-chief of the platform and a seasoned expert in audiobooks and e-readers, discussed the latest happenings in the digital publishing industry with guests Mercy Pilkington and Jeremy Greenfield.
Kozlowski, who resides in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, shared his predictions for the future of e-readers, audiobooks, and digital publishing. He foresees Sony and B&N focusing only on tablets and potentially stopping the production of E INK readers. He also predicts a decline in the tablet and e-reader industry, with tablet screens manufacturing down almost 30% in 2014.
Meanwhile, Kozlowski anticipates companies like E INK diversifying away from e-readers and focusing on digital signage and wearable tech. He also predicts e-reader screens will likely follow suit in the decline.
Pilkington, a media writer, highlighted the lack of synergy between Nook Press and the Barnes and Noble retail chain. She also predicted a focus on self-published authors and the increasing accessibility of indie titles to libraries, eBook subscription sites, and Overdrive. Additionally, Pilkington foresees a changing role for agents for authors and its challenges.
Greenfield, from Digital Book World, predicted a boom period for eBook subscription services like Oyster and Scribd. He also believes the illustrated book business is on the decline. Furthermore, Greenfield foresees the decline of Barnes and Noble and the potential opening of Amazon retail stores.
The podcast, presented as a podcast on the platform Radio, features opinions from top bloggers and media writers. To share the podcast, users can use the Share, Tweet, Share on Reddit, and Vote options provided. Listeners can access the podcast on platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer, Youtube Music, and through RSS feed.
The podcast can be volume controlled using the Up/Down Arrow keys, making it convenient for listeners to adjust the volume according to their preferences. The Good e-Reader Radio Show invites listeners who are interested in the world of eBooks, digital publishing, or the process of e-reading not to miss this particular episode.
In a general overview of the trends around that time based on common industry developments, the eBook market was growing rapidly, with many publishers beginning to see significant increases in eBook sales compared to traditional print books. Self-publishing was becoming more popular, as platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and Smashwords allowed authors to easily publish their work.
Sales of e-Readers like Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook were significant, with many consumers turning to these devices for reading eBooks. However, tablets, such as iPads and Android devices, were increasingly popular for reading eBooks, due to their versatility compared to dedicated e-Readers.
Libraries were starting to adopt digital lending platforms, allowing patrons to borrow eBooks. However, the availability and variety of titles were limited compared to physical books. Major bookstores like Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million were adapting to the shift towards digital publishing by offering eBooks and enhancing their online presence.
Many brick-and-mortar bookstores faced challenges due to the rise of online retailers like Amazon, which offered competitive pricing and convenience. Despite these challenges, the digital publishing industry continues to evolve, and the Good e-Reader Radio Show provides valuable insights into its future direction.
E-reader technology might find a new purpose in digital signage or wearable tech as companies like E INK diversify their focus, reflecting the changing landscape of the e-reader industry. As the demand for education-and-self-development and entertainment content continues to grow, libraries may increasingly lend e-books, thereby expanding the reach of self-published authors and indie titles.
