Android phones and tablets are excellent devices for eBook reading. You can get free apps for your Android device that you can use to read your eBooks from the major sources including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. You can also read eBooks on Android that you download from any other store. Below are the top 5 most popular eBook apps for Android.
1. Amazon Kindle Android App
The Kindle App for Android lets you read all of your Kindle eBooks on an Android device, even if you don't own a Kindle eReader. If you do have a Kindle, you can read your eBooks on both the Kindle and Android device. Your reading progress will be synced between the devices with Amazon's "Whispersinc" technology. Like the Kindle itself and other Kindle apps, you can access free content and download eBooks for $9.99.
Download: Search for "Kindle" in the Android Market.
Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.
eBooks Supported: Amazon Kindle eBooks in the AZW format that are only sold at Amazon.com.
2. Barnes & Noble Nook Android App
The Android Nook App from Barnes & Noble lets you read all of the Nook eBooks on your Android device without having to own a Nook eReader. Barnes & Noble's Nook system is unique in that it will let you lend content with their "LendMe" software. You can also sample any of the Nook books for free before you buy.
Download: Search for "NOOK" in the Android Market.
Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.
eBooks Supported: If you want to read using the Nook App, then you should get eBooks from Barnes & Noble's Nook store.
3. Sony Reader Android App
The Sony Reader Android app comes pre-loaded with three classic titles and three excerpts from bestselling eBooks. You can sync your reading position, bookmarks, and highlights to Reader Daily Edition (PRS-950SC with firmware 2.0). Like the other apps, you can also read Sony Reader eBooks even if you don't have a Sony Reader.
Download: Search for "Sony Reader" in the Android Market.
Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 2.2 or higher.
eBooks Supported: If you want to read Sony Reader eBooks on your Android device, get them from Sony's "Reader Store".
4. Kobo eReader Android App
With the Kobo Android app, you can buy eBooks from inside the app and download them directly to your phone. Take your entire library with you on the go. You can find all of your favorite titles and authors in Kobo's large eBook selection.
Download: Search for "Kobo" in the Android Market.
Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.
eBooks Supported: If you want to use the Kobo Android app, you should download eBooks from the KoboBooks website.
5. Aldiko Android App
The Aldiko Android App gives eBook lovers an alternative to apps from the bigger book companies listed above. With Aldiko, you are not locked into one eBook store. Instead, you can buy eBooks from any eBook retailer that sells Adobe PDF or EPUB eBooks. You can download eBooks directly to your device without needing to use your computer. Import your own content and create your own eBook catalogs.
Download: Search "Aldiko: in the Android Market.
Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 2.1 or higher.
eBooks Supported: The Aldiko Book Reader supports Adobe-DRM ePub and PDF as well as non-encrypted ePub and PDF formats. You can get eBooks anywhere ePub and PDF eBooks are sold or available for free. You can also get eBooks from your public library (where supported).
All of these apps are solid solutions for eBook reading. Choose the one that will work best for you based on the eBook reader or mobile device that you own, and the eBooks that you've already purchased and downloaded.
Jared Scott has over ten years experience working in the eBook and e-Reader industry. His eBook Reader Software blog is updated regularly with informational posts relating to eBook software. This topic is covered in more detail at Top 5 Android eBook Apps.
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