Apple has announced that their iBooks store is now available in Japan, and the iBookstore features titles from major publishers as well as a wide range of emerging and established Japanese authors.
“We’re excited to launch the iBookstore in Japan with a wide selection of Japanese publishers and authors,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Internet Software and Services. “We think customers are going to love how engaging and interactive the books are to read, and how beautiful they look on iPad.”
With the launch of the iBookstore in Japan, this now makes 51 countries that it is available in, and Apple also announced that their iBooks app for the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch has been downloaded more than 130 million times.
Expanding the Digital Reading Experience
The introduction of the iBookstore in Japan is a significant milestone for Apple, as it opens up a new market for digital books in a country known for its rich literary tradition. Japanese readers can now access a vast library of books, ranging from contemporary fiction and non-fiction to classic literature and educational materials. This move is expected to revolutionize the way people in Japan consume written content, making it more accessible and convenient.
The iBookstore’s interactive features are particularly noteworthy. Readers can enjoy books that include multimedia elements such as videos, animations, and interactive diagrams. This is especially beneficial for educational books, where interactive content can enhance learning and comprehension. For example, a biology textbook might include 3D models of cells that students can manipulate to better understand their structure and function.
Support for Japanese Authors and Publishers
The launch of the iBookstore in Japan also provides a significant platform for Japanese authors and publishers. Established authors can reach a broader audience, while emerging writers have the opportunity to gain visibility and build their readership. This democratization of publishing is one of the key advantages of digital bookstores, as it lowers the barriers to entry for new authors.
Major Japanese publishers such as Kodansha, Shogakukan, and Kadokawa are already on board, offering a wide range of titles. Additionally, the iBookstore features works from independent publishers and self-published authors, ensuring a diverse selection of content. This inclusivity is crucial for fostering a vibrant literary ecosystem.
Apple’s commitment to the Japanese market is evident in the localization of the iBooks app. The app supports vertical text, a common format in Japanese books, and includes a built-in dictionary for Japanese-English translations. These features make the reading experience more seamless and enjoyable for Japanese users.
Global Impact and Future Prospects
The expansion of the iBookstore to Japan is part of Apple’s broader strategy to establish a global presence in the digital book market. With the iBookstore now available in 51 countries, Apple is well-positioned to compete with other major players in the industry, such as Amazon’s Kindle Store and Google Play Books. The company’s focus on providing a high-quality, interactive reading experience sets it apart from its competitors.
Looking ahead, Apple is likely to continue expanding the iBookstore to additional countries, further increasing its global footprint. The company may also explore new features and technologies to enhance the digital reading experience. For instance, advancements in augmented reality (AR) could be integrated into educational books, providing an even more immersive learning experience.
The launch of the iBookstore in Japan is a significant development for Apple and the digital book market. It offers Japanese readers a convenient and engaging way to access a wide range of books, while also providing a valuable platform for authors and publishers. As Apple continues to innovate and expand its offerings, the future of digital reading looks promising.
Source Apple
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