Kobo (company)

Kobo (company). Kobo is a Canadian company specializing in e-readers, e-books, and related digital reading services. Founded in Toronto in late 2009, it was acquired by the Japanese e-commerce giant Rakuten in 2012. The company operates a global digital distribution platform, competing with rivals like Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble's Nook.

History

Kobo was founded in December 2009 by Michael Serbinis, Malcolm MacLean, and Tom Turvey, with initial backing from the Canadian bookseller Indigo Books and Music. The company launched its first e-reader, the original Kobo eReader, in mid-2010, partnering with major retailers like Borders Group and WHSmith. In 2011, Kobo expanded its services with the launch of its Kobo Writing Life self-publishing platform. The pivotal moment came in 2012 when Rakuten completed its acquisition of the company for US$315 million, integrating it into its global portfolio alongside other assets like Buy.com and Viber. Under Rakuten's ownership, Kobo accelerated its international expansion, entering markets such as Japan, France, and the Netherlands.

Products and services

Kobo's primary hardware line includes a range of e-readers, such as the entry-level Kobo Nia, the waterproof Kobo Clara HD, and the premium note-taking Kobo Elipsa. The company also previously manufactured Android (operating system)-based tablet computers like the Kobo Arc. Its core service is the Kobo Store, which offers millions of e-books and audiobooks, the latter bolstered by partnerships with providers like Audible. The Kobo Plus subscription service provides unlimited access to a catalog of titles. For authors, the Kobo Writing Life portal facilitates direct publishing and distribution to the global marketplace.

Technology and software

Kobo devices are distinguished by their use of E Ink displays, with many models featuring Carta technology for improved contrast. The proprietary Kobo Operating System is built on Linux and is designed for reading, featuring customization options like adjustable fonts, margins, and lighting settings, including the ComfortLight PRO system for reducing blue light. Software integration is key, with iOS and Android (operating system) apps allowing synchronization of reading progress and library across devices. The platform supports open standards like EPUB and Adobe Digital Editions, and utilizes OverDrive integration for borrowing e-books from public libraries.

Business operations

Kobo operates on a global scale, with its e-readers and content store available in over 190 countries. The company employs a hybrid distribution model, selling hardware and e-book credits through its own website and through retail partners like Walmart in the United States and FNAC in France. Its content ecosystem generates revenue through book sales, audiobook downloads, and subscription fees from Kobo Plus. The Kobo Writing Life platform also creates revenue-sharing opportunities with independent authors. Key operational hubs are located in Toronto, Taipei, and Tokyo.

Corporate affairs

As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rakuten, Kobo's corporate strategy is aligned with its parent company's vision of empowering communities through digital services. The executive team, including CEO Michael Tamblyn, reports to Rakuten's leadership in Tokyo. Kobo engages in numerous literacy and educational partnerships, such as collaborations with Worldreader and various public library systems. The company faces significant competition in the digital publishing industry from Amazon, Apple Inc., and Google Play Books, driving continuous innovation in its hardware and content offerings.

Category:Companies based in Toronto Category:E-book companies Category:Rakuten subsidiaries