Amazon Kindle, developed by Amazon.com, is a software and hardware platform for reading electronic books (e-books). The hardware device uses an electronic paper display and downloads content over the free (no monthly subscription fee) Amazon Whispernet using the Sprint EVDO network. Many of the books on Amazon.com are available in Kindle format.
A couple of weeks ago Amazon opened up its book collection (in Kindle format) for Apple iPhone and iPod Touch.
We believe it is a great business strategy because it creates a new distribution channel for Amazon contents. Amazon realizes that their value comes from their content and not from the distribution channels (Kindle or printed books) themselves. It is obvious that more the distribution channels more the reach and hence more the value and revenue. A great example of this phenomenon is "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch . It is available in hardcover, paperback, audio cd, Kindle and audible.com in addition to being freely available on youtube. What is interesting is, this lecture is successful in all formats - 9 million views on youtube and book is one of the Amazon best sellers,
Amazon's strategy makes great sense particularly when so many different types of medium (web, radio, tv, cell phones,etc) are available for users. We wouldn't be surprised if they make the Kindle App available for other smart phones as well.
While we are admiring Amazon's strategy, we are wondering why radio stations still incorrectly believe that their value comes from spectrum license. We hope they will realize soon that their value lies in their brand, content,programs and DJs.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
0 comments:
Post a Comment