Ebooks: The Digital Revolution in Reading | Golden Age

Ebooks, or electronic books, have been a major disruptor in the publishing industry since their inception in the 1990s. The first ebook is often attributed to Michael Hart, who in 1971 created the first digital version of the Declaration of Independence. However, it wasn't until the launch of the Amazon Kindle in 2007 that ebooks started to gain mainstream popularity. Today, ebooks account for over 20% of all book sales, with many authors and publishers opting for digital-first releases. The rise of ebooks has also led to a shift in reading habits, with many readers preferring the convenience and accessibility of digital books. Despite the controversy surrounding the impact of ebooks on traditional publishing and reading habits, the ebook market is expected to continue growing, with projected sales of over $14 billion by 2025, and a vibe score of 80, indicating a significant cultural energy around the topic.