E-reading service Kobo on Wednesday unveiled a desktop application that will let users access and build their digital library from the computer desktop.
Users with third-party e-readers can connect to Kobo, and download or purchase content, Kobo said. The content will then be accessible on the desktop app without an Internet connection.
Content will sync between mobile devices and the desktop. Kobo is available for iPhone, iPad, BlackBerry, Android, Android Tablets, as well as the Kobo eReader.
"Kobo has long supported reading across platforms, and now we are the first to provide an experience that supports a wide range of e-readers and mobile devices," Michael Serbinis, chief executive of Kobo, said in a statement. "As an avid reader and book lover, I understand the importance of knowing your books are safe, secure, and always at your fingertips. The Kobo Desktop Application is the first phase of a new Kobo initiative to give readers more control over their e-books, and new tools to display and share their growing library."
The Kobo desktop app works on PCs and Macs. It is available for free at kobobooks.com/desktop.
Last week Kobo announced that it will be the engine behind the "Readers Hub" e-book reading app on the just-announced Galaxy Tab from Samsung. In August, Borders also dropped the price of the Kobo e-reader from $149.99 to $129.
In other e-reading news, Barnes & Noble on Thursday released an upgraded version of its Nook for Android app. Version 2.2 includes faster library access, pop-up menus, a more customizable reading experience, an updated settings screen, and the option to hide the status bar while reading, among other things.
It is available for download at bn.com/NOOKforandroid.