Kobo says it will take over Sony’s ebook businesses in the UK, Germany, Austria, and Australia from next month.
The news follows a deal in February under which Kobo’s store replaced Sony’s US ebook operation online and on WiFi enabled ereaders.
The close of Sony’s four stores will take place on June 16 and Kobo says customers and their current eBook libraries will transfer over to its platform “soon after the closure.”
Affected customers will receive an email from Kobo with instructions on how to transfer their library. In the meantime they’re advised to continue purchasing ebooks from Sony’s Reader Store.
In addition, the Kobo App for Android will be pre-loaded on select Sony smartphones and tablets.
“We are delighted to be working with Sony to reach the most passionate Readers in Europe and Australia, by bringing the Kobo world to Reader Store customers – keeping them reading their favourite stories,” said Takahito Aiki, CEO, Kobo.
“Both companies share the goal of putting the most passionate booklovers at the centre of the reading experience. This means providing the best experience through innovative technology coupled with a vast and comprehensive digital reading ecosystem.”