Jump-starting electronic books

Volume 17, Number 3 • March 2000

Jump-starting electronic books — Can new alliances and products successfully challenge paper publishing?
by Robin Peek

FOCUS ON PUBLISHING column discusses some recent deals in the electronic book market that may prove to be a defining moment in the future of the publishing industry. Says that the Microsoft/Barnes & Noble alliance is dependent upon the release of Microsoft's Reader software, which fits into Microsoft's belief that portability is the future of computing. Highlights what it says is another surprising move, Gemstar International Group's acquisition of two of the leading producers of e-book devices, NuvoMedia and SoftBook Press. Says that this acquisition should provide the necessary financial resources to create an advertising campaign to promote e-books and to license e-book technology to other manufacturers. Concludes that e-books are not a done deal yet, but with Microsoft and Barnes & Noble in the game, a true test of the market can soon be anticipated.