Amazon has launched a new set of functions for the iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch versions of the Kindle eReader–allowing for the use of embedded video and audio clips inside Amazon eBooks.
Despite the eReader price war last week, Amazon is seeking to maintain a strong footprint as bookseller in the iPad market. The audio/video eBooks launched with Rick Steves’ London by Rick Steves and Together We Cannot Fail by Terry Golway.
Avalon Travel publisher Bill Newlin explained: “In the new Kindle Edition with audio/video of Rick Steves’ London, the embedded walking tours allow customers to listen to Rick as they explore the sites of London … Rick’s narration adds depth to the reader’s experience, while listeners can follow the routes more easily with the text.”
In addition, books like Best of the Beatles for Acoustic Guitar and Lullaby Baby already have audio/video content available. Check them out here.
In the announcement, Wiley director of digital content sales Peter Balis had this statement: “Innovations like these represent the advantages that digital can offer. Advancing our content in this manner is important for our authors and our readers and it will raise the bar on what digital reading can offer for years to come.”
UPDATE: Over at MobileContentToday, Todd Ogasawara test drives an enhanced eBook on Apple devices.
