Amazon initiates beta testing for publishing periodical content on Kindle
In a move to expand its digital publishing offerings, Amazon has recently launched a beta program aimed at assisting publishers of magazines and newspapers to submit their content for display on the Kindle E-Readers.
Key Features of the Program
The program allows for free sign-ups and supports publishing in five languages. Publishers must fill out a basic application form and provide URLs for their company. Each submitted application must be compatible with the devices supported by the Kindle, including the Kindle e-readers, Kindle apps on smartphones/tablets, and Fire tablets.
Amazon employs a 70% revenue model to pay publishers per each digital download. However, no further information about the supported languages, device compatibility beyond the Kindle, or the revenue model's specifics was provided.
Limited to USA-Based Publishers for Now
At present, the program is limited to USA-based publishers for content sales via Amazon. Amazon has previously mentioned plans to open up to other markets, but this has not yet occurred, notably in reference to the Blogs for Kindle program five months ago.
Accelerated Application Process in Response to Competition
Amazon takes two days to manually validate applications for the program. However, due to the imminent launch of Apple's new publishing service, primarily focused on the iPad, Amazon may accelerate the application process to attract more publishers.
No Timeline for Global Expansion or Support for Other Devices
No new information was provided about the Kindle Publishing for Periodicals launch date or the timeline for support for Android, Apple, and Blackberry devices beyond the future. Amazon has not announced any plans or timeline for adding periodicals or global expansion of such features on KDP in 2025.
The link to apply for Amazon's new program for magazines and newspapers can be found in the article. For up-to-date details about Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), key requirements include properly formatted manuscript files, cover images, adherence to keyword and metadata guidelines, and accessibility checks for better reader experience.
Michael Kozlowski, who has been writing about audiobooks, e-books, and e-readers for the past eighteen years and lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is a key figure in the industry. He has not provided any new information about the Kindle being the first e-reader to display this content.
References
- Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) for Books
- Amazon KDP Updates in 2025
- Amazon KDP Keyword Rules
- Amazon KDP Accessibility Requirements
- Amazon KDP User Interface Improvements
- Publishers can submit their magazines and newspapers for display on various technology gadgets such as Kindle e-readers, as well as Kindle apps on smartphones and tablets, through Amazon's new program.
- In response to competition, Amazon may expedite the application process for publishers seeking to join the program, due to the forthcoming launch of Apple's publishing service, primarily for the iPad.