Software, Device Makers Adopt eBook Technology Standards

Authored by Mark Hefflinger on June 20, 2006 - 11:59am.

New York - The International Digital Publishing Forum (IPDF) announced on Tuesday that major software developers and device manufacturers have agreed to support its new e-book standards, which aim to resolve file interoperability and production issues hampering growth of the industry. The new standards include a ZIP-based format that will allow publishers to release a single standard file to their sales and distribution channels, instead of the current multiple proprietary files needed. An update to the XML-based Open eBook Publication Structure Standard (OEBPS) is also under development, which will focus on detailed control of content rendering, navigation and accessibility. The IDPF said its forthcoming specifications have already received support from Adobe, eBook Technologies, Amazon.com's Mobipocket, Motricity, iRex Technologies and OSoft.com. "The enhancements to the standards will improve accessibility and be more publisher and consumer friendly," said Mark Carey, CEO of open source document company OSoft.com. "Of particular interest to publishers is the standardization of a master e-book format which will greatly improve document workflow and reduce e-book publishing costs."

http://www.idpf.org/pressroom/pressreleases/idpfstandards06.htm