Gadgets

There’s an unfortunate catch to the latest Kindle alternative

Published

2 months ago

February 5, 2025

Empowerment

There's an unfortunate catch to the latest Kindle alternative

Summary

Bookshop.org enables users to purchase ebooks online while also supporting local bookstores.

The platform currently does not support Kindle devices due to DRM issues, limiting access to iOS and Android devices only. Support for Kobo devices is in progress.

Some Reddit users raised concerns about the app being challenging for individuals who struggle to read on devices without an E Ink display.

When it comes to e-readers, Amazon’s Kindle devices are a popular choice due to their affordability and user-friendly features. Despite Amazon’s dominance in the online book sales market, a new Kindle alternative, Bookshop.org, aims to disrupt the industry by supporting local bookstores.

Bookshop.org is an innovative platform that allows users to purchase and read ebooks while also backing local bookstores. The app can be accessed on iOS and Android devices, as well as through the web. CEO Andy Hunter created the app with the intention of supporting local bookstores in the digital age.

“Currently, if you want to read an e-book and support your local bookstore, you have limited options,” Hunter explained in an interview with USA Today. “E-books play a significant role in supporting publishers, authors, and independent bookstores.”

Bookshop.org Ebooks

The Bookshop.org app allows users to read ebooks on their mobile devices. Ebooks can be purchased on Bookstorg.org’s website, with the option to select a local bookstore for purchase.

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Bookshop.org doesn’t support Kindles

Readers can only use it on iOS and Android devices

Bookshop.org allows users to choose their local bookstore to purchase ebooks from, with most of the proceeds benefiting the bookstore. To find out which local bookstores are available on the platform, users can check Bookshop.org’s store locator. However, the lack of Kindle support due to DRM issues was quickly highlighted by eager users. Bookshop.org is currently working on adding compatibility for Kobo devices in the near future.

“Due to Amazon’s DRM software and publishers’ requirements, it is currently not feasible to purchase ebooks from Bookshop.org or local bookstores and read them on your Kindle,” as stated in Bookshop.org’s FAQ section.

Reddit users who are Kindle enthusiasts quickly pointed out the potential usability challenges for individuals who prefer devices with E Ink displays, such as Kindle and Kobo. One user on Reddit expressed, “This app won’t work for those who struggle to read on a phone or tablet.”

If reading on a phone or tablet is comfortable for you, Bookshop.org could serve as a viable alternative to Kindle, especially if you wish to show support for local bookstores. The platform offers a vast selection of titles from major publishers, with seamless reading progress synchronization across all your devices. The Bookshop.org app is currently accessible on both the App Store and Google Play Store. As of now, Bookshop.org has raised over $35 million to benefit local bookstores.