Apple Launches iBookstore for iPad

by Michael Small | April 2, 2010 at 03:48 pm

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Apple Launches Full Library of iBooks

Apple has launched a complete library of online books for its iBookstore application. These eBooks will be made specifically for the iPad device that launches on April 3rd.

Apple Launch Day: Lineups and Expected Sales

iBooks is a beautifully designed digital bookshelf that allows users to download and read books from the iBookstore, from popular bestsellers to classics. The store is launching with a complimentary digital version of A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh, and users will be able to preview a sample of a book before electing to purchase it.

The launch of the iBookstore puts the iPad in direct competition with the Kindle, Amazon.com's eBook reader. Some are saying that the iPad will lead to the demise of the Kindle, as it's full colour and touch screen make the Kindle an unsexy choice.

The iBooks Store

The iBooks store is specifically designed to allow users to search for and download books quickly and easily. The iBookstore will only be available for the iPad -- at least at first-- which may be an incentive for people on the fence about the iPad. Having an online bookstore available will be a big draw for those looking for a tablet.

This is a solid strategy for Apple, who are trying to establish a solid base for the iPad, but it may rankle with some users who want to use the iBookstore on their PC or phone.

The iBookstore will only be available in the USA at the time of the iPad launch on April 3rd 2010.