Bookshop platform partners with Kobo devices

In the e-book market, Bookshop.org—considered one of Amazon’s main competitors and a major player in the global book trade—has announced an unexpected and significant update. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

The platform plans to fully support Kobo e-readers, owned by Rakuten, by the end of this year. This development is a long-awaited opportunity for readers who wish to support independent bookstores but prefer digital formats over traditional paper books.

For a long time, purchasing digital titles from independent stores on Kobo devices has been a complicated and outdated process, relying on cumbersome workarounds. Many users have repeatedly reported technical difficulties when trying to buy e-books from their favorite local shops.

The new partnership between Bookshop.org and Kobo aims to resolve these issues and streamline the process. Initially scheduled for launch in 2025, the project was later delayed by another year.

Even at the beginning of this year, rumors circulated that the project had been put on hold indefinitely. However, Bookshop.org’s leader, Endi Xanter, confirmed that the situation has taken a positive turn, and both parties have reached a final agreement on business terms and copyright protection.

In an interview, Xanter emphasized that the delays were primarily due to insufficient engineering resources and strict requirements from publishers regarding digital rights management. Currently, all technical obstacles are being resolved, with the goal of launching the system by the end of this year.

This opens new conveniences for readers. Why might users prefer dedicated devices like Kobo over simple apps on tablets or phones?

The main reason is e-ink technology. This display does not strain the eyes and provides a reading experience as comfortable as paper, even in bright sunlight.

Moreover, such devices offer battery life lasting several weeks and avoid distracting users with constant notifications—key advantages. The collaboration between Bookshop.org and Kobo is not just a technological innovation; it represents a meaningful step toward helping small, independent bookstores survive in the digital age.

Now, readers can enjoy modern technology while also contributing to the growth of local shops. The expansion of such international platforms will undoubtedly offer broader choices for readers in emerging markets like Uzbekistan in the future.