Sony today announced that its Reader Digital Book will be the first eBook reading device to support the EPUB format, the International Digital Publishing Forum’s XML-based standard format for reflowable digital books and publications.

Starting next month, new Readers model PRS-505, will be able to access and accept secure and non-secure ebooks in the EPUB format. EPUB has gained acceptance among major trade book publishers, many of whom have committed to begin publishing forthcoming ebooks in the format.

Additionally, the device will support Adobe eBooks with digital rights management and have the capability to reflow standard text-based Portable Document Format (PDF) eBooks for improved flexibility and readability. These enhancements are now made possible with the support of Adobe Digital Editions 1.5 software, which is available as a free download at www.adobe.com/products/digitaleditions.

“The Reader is an open device and we will continue to explore formats that will provide the widest variety of content for Reader users,” said Steve Haber, senior vice president of consumer product marketing for Sony Electronics. “This upgrade opens the door to a whole host of paid and free content from third-party eBook stores, web sites and even public libraries.”

Reader users can transfer these documents to their devices using Adobe Digital Editions software, or via the updated Sony eBook Library software that comes packaged with new Readers. Current owners of the PRS-505 model can upgrade their units now from the Sony support site:https://esupport.sony.com.

“We are excited about the support of the EPUB format, PDF reflow and Adobe Digital Editions in one of the most popular and advanced eBook reading devices,” said Dan Baum, vice president, New Business Initiatives at Adobe. “Adobe Digital Editions is transforming the digital reading experience through its support of open standards and broad content availability from retailers and libraries.”

PRS-505 model Readers will continue to support BBeB formatted eBooks offered at the Sony eBook Store.  Therefore, users can retain and grow their current collections of eBooks without having to reformat or repurchase them. All files are conveniently managed by the eBook Library software.

In celebration, Sony will introduce a limited edition red PRS-505 model. It will ship with EPUB and enhanced PDF support right out of the box. The red Reader will be available next month at SonyStyle stores and online at SonyStyle.com.

About the Reader

The Reader Digital Book by Sony is a portable reading device for eBooks. Its high-resolution electronic paper display delivers a realistic print look that rivals traditional paper and uses minimal power.  A single battery charge provides up to 7,500 pages of continuous reading.

The Reader retails for about $300 and comes complete with a USB cable; eBook Library software; and a color-coordinated, protective soft cover.  Users can download the upgrade for current PRS-505 models, starting on today from the Sony support site:https://esupport.sony.com and Adobe Digital Editions 1.5 software from: www.adobe.com/products/digitaleditions.  More information about the Reader Digital Book is available online at www.sony.com/reader.