BecJul 22, 2023

It might be that I'm particularly grumpy but I bought an ebook today. And when I was sent the information it included the fact I then had to download the bookseller app to access the ebook. I don't want yet another freaking app to do something. Is this even legal in Australia? Where was this info pre-purchase.

I just want all my books on the one shelf, not on separate proprietary shelves these booksellers demand I set up in my space. I don't require (even more) retailers inserting their apps into my world just so I can access something I bought. Gimme my stuff and I'll put it where I want. No one buys a car only to be told it can only be driven on some roads that need to be approved before driving off. Digital things are still things. I want to use the things I buy how I need to.

#grumpy

Show threadgwendolenauJul 22, 2023
@becadroit
Over time, I've come to the conclusion that it's best to reject purchasing any ebooks which come wrapped in #DRM - they are just too much of a hassle. This is hard as there aren't many publishers that don't use it (the best known to me are #Tor and #Baen ) plus for indie authors there is #Smashwords . Sadly, this only leaves hardcopies or library borrowing for the rest (unless you resort to piracy, which has its own issues).
#bookstodon
Show threadBecJul 22, 2023
@gwendolenau agree. It'd been awhile since I've bought an ebook but my local library's copy was booked, and I don't mind paying. I just mind the management of my stuff.
Show threadgwendolenau
@becadroit
Yes, I don't mind paying. It's the file coming with #DRM, which prevents me from organising it where I want to, that puts me off.
Jul 22, 2023 at 4:55amWeb
Show threadNitin KhannaJul 22, 2023
@gwendolenau what’s the scope of you breaking DRM on this ebook? @becadroit
Show threadgwendolenauJul 22, 2023
@nitinkhanna @becadroit
Breaking DRM (on anything) comes with its own hassles. You need to determine the precise format of the file and version of DRM software it's wrapped in. Then you need to track down the right kind of de-DRM software to use with it. None of these are static as DRM and anti-DRM software are engaged in a neverending arms race.
Show threadBecJul 22, 2023
@gwendolenau @nitinkhanna too much effort for lil old me.
Show threadBecJul 22, 2023
@nitinkhanna @gwendolenau As in if I could what would happen? Dunno? I don't want to break the DRM particularly. I bought a copy and I'm ok buying things and I'm not interested in doing nefarious stuff with my copy. I just don't want another app to read this one book.