I’ve often remarked to our team on how quickly things have changed in the short time we’ve been managing the eBook program at Tyndale. When we began, Sony was the major player trying to reinvent the eBook market (Palm was our largest distributor at the time!). Then Amazon introduced the Kindle and has dominated the eBook market so far. Just last summer, many of us were concerned about what an Amazon monopoly of eBooks posed to publishers in general.

Now, just two months into 2010, it appears that some of those assumptions are changing based on the many new players entering the eBook market. Getting started in this business is a difficult task given how high the bar has been set with Amazon’s wireless delivery. But, I must say that I’m excited about the new companies getting involved in the eBook business for a number of reasons:

1. Competition is always good! The more distributors there are in the pool, the less likely one can dominate the market and set the terms.  The recent showdown with Amazon and Macmillan illustrates the power of a third party entering the market.
2. eBooks is becoming a viable market! Several years ago, eBooks were laughed off as something that would only amount to a special niche market. Now, with so much investment going on, it appears many are seeing the potential of digital publishing.
3. More innovation on the horizon. I think we’re seeing the tip of the iceberg right now. Soon, the digital reading experience will offer new possibilities limited only by what technology can do.

Last month, Apple declared they were entering the eBook market with the launch of the iPad, Baker and Taylor are introducing a new software-based eBook system in the coming months, and we’re talking with several other companies about new distribution opportunities. So, it looks like 2010 is going to be a big year for eBooks.

We’ll keep you informed of the details!