E-book distributor OverDrive has announced plans to launch a new HTML5-based, browser-based e-book reader. The reader, dubbed “OverDrive Read” will enable readers to access OverDrive e-books using standard web browsers, without having to download any software or apps. The platform will roll out "later this year."
When launched, officials say OverDrive Read will complement OverDrive’s support for EPUB and PDF e-books across a range of dedicated e-Ink e-readers, smartphones, tablets and computers, and it will be available through all of OverDrive’s catalogs. It will function in both online and offline modes, with “configurable, industry-approved copyright protection” for e-books. OverDrive currently offers more than 800,000 e-books and audiobooks, and services more than 18,000 libraries, schools and retailers worldwide.
OverDrive will demonstrate the new platform at BookExpo America, in New York City, June 5-7, 2012 (Booth #4340), as well as at the American Library Association annual conference in Anaheim, Calif., June 22-25, and you can view a demo here.
