Amazon Announces Publishing Imprint

A press release by Amazon.com AMZN yesterday unveiled new plans to launch a new publishing imprint, AmazonCrossing. Plans for AmazonCrossing focus on providing English-language translations for foreign texts. "The goal of our publishing programs is to introduce readers to terrific authors they might not otherwise have the chance to know," said Jeff Belle, Vice President of Books. "Our international customers have made us aware of exciting established and emerging voices from other cultures and countries that have not been translated for English-language readers. These great voices and great books deserve a wider audience, and that's why we created AmazonCrossing." The Wall Street Journal reported this is Amazon's second publishing undertaking, showing another sign that Amazon is aiming to increase its influence in the industry. The ability to provide original content is key in will be differentiating Amazon from other retailers as the eBook industry becomes more saturated. This, coupled with an aim to aggressively price eBooks, will help Amazon to maintain its position in the marketplace. Amazon has also been actively expanding its Kindle eBook business by releasing updated versions of its Kindle wireless reading device this year. In addition, Amazon has made it's eBooks available on multiple platforms including Apple's Mac OS x AAPL, iPhone, iPad, Windows 7 MSFT, and Windows Mobile. An upcoming release of a Kindle reader for Google's GOOG Android OS is soon to come. This type of cross-platform availability contrasts the closed model of iTunes in which only Apple devices can take advantage of available media content. Amazon hopes that this universality will keep its market share safe from emerging eBook retailers such as Apple's iBooks, and Barnes and Noble BKS. Register for the LA Trader's Expo for Free Here!