

Ebooks downloaded from these vendors can be viewed using the vendor’s specific device or app (such as a Nook, the nook app, the Google Play Books app, a Kobo ereader, etc.), OR through Adobe Digital Editions, a software created by Adobe that unlocks DRM. This includes Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Kobo. The other vendors who use DRM all use Adobe’s. ITunes uses Apple’s own DRM, so those ebooks can only be read on the Apple Books app. You also cannot share books with others by simply copying files over you must go through Amazon’s lending program, which is limited. Amazon DRMĪmazon has their own DRM that they use on all their ebooks, which means you cannot view Kindle books without a Kindle or the Kindle app. There are three main systems for ebook DRM.

What ebooks are DRM protected?ĭifferent vendors use different DRM systems to protect ebooks. It can also be a hassle for legitimate ebook owners who would like to read their purchased book on various devices. Unfortunately, since DRM can be broken, it is more of just a deterrent rather than a sure thing. After all, that money is their livelihood! DRM exists to protect ebooks from being pirated.

Why have ebook DRM?Īuthors put a lot of time and money into their novels, and they don’t want those books to be stolen. Other restrictions exist: you are limited on how many of your devices you can download the same ebook to at a time, and you cannot print the book (if you can, it will have a watermark or will only allow you to print a small part of it). Not only that, but you cannot share the book with others, even if they have the same device (except through Amazon’s limited lending program). In other words, if you buy a book on Amazon, you can only read it on your Kindle or your Kindle app. What does it mean for an ebook to be protected with DRM?ĭRM locks a file so that only the person who purchased it can view it, and only on the device or app from that vendor. Basically, it prevents users from illegally copying and using software and data, such as an ebook.

If you read ebooks, you’ve probably heard the term “DRM,” but what is ebook DRM? DRM stands for digital rights management, and it exists to control access to copyrighted materials. If you’re like us and love to read, then click here to score tons of free and discounted ebooks. Connecting the RIGHT readers with the RIGHT books
