EPUBs, Interactive PDF, and Tablet Apps
InDesign can export publications in EPUB, Interactive PDF, and tablet application formats using Digital Publishing Suite (DPS). There are some major differences between EPUB, interactive PDF, and DPS. EPUB is reflowable in e-readers, while PDF content is a fixed layout. DPS is frequently used to publish digital magazines and periodicals. It can have scrolling text options, pop-ups options with in-depth descriptions, and live/static HTML interactions. The big difference with DPS is that it is the final document format is an app.
Just as there are various considerations to digital publishing, there is also various options with the type of device used to read digital publications. Most e-readers have conformed to a six inch screen view. The biggest upfront difference between e-readers and tablets is the price; e-readers are now being offered at a lower price, usually under $100. However, when reading an article posted at Make Use Of online site, they suggested some differences are, “The display technology, the touchscreen technology, the operating system, applications and hardware.”
A recent article this past January by Which to Go, it was reported that tablets are becoming less expensive, they can do more than an e-reader, and can be used as an e-reader with the inclusion of apps. This articles also lists the benefits of tablets over e-readers are 1.) games and apps, 2.) fast tactile responsiveness, 3.) web surfing, 4.) color screens, 5.) large screen, 6.) video and audio capabilities, and 7.) more bells and whistles. However, it went on to state the benefits of an e-reader over tablets are 1.) longer battery life, 2.) eye ease, 3.) reading under sunlight, 4.) lighter weight, and 5.) security features.
