What Happened to EPUB Books in Microsoft Edge
For several years, Microsoft Edge supported reading EPUB files directly in the browser, providing users with a convenient way to open and read e-books without needing additional software. This feature was well-received because it integrated seamlessly into the Windows ecosystem, making Edge a versatile tool for reading digital books. However, as of March 2020, Microsoft discontinued the support for EPUB files in Microsoft Edge. This section will explore what led to this change and what alternatives are available for users who used to rely on Edge for reading EPUB books.
Discontinuation of EPUB Support
Microsoft’s decision to end EPUB support in Edge was part of a broader initiative to rebuild Microsoft Edge on the Chromium source code, the same codebase that powers Google Chrome. This transition aimed to enhance web compatibility and streamline the browsing experience by leveraging Chromium’s strengths. However, during this overhaul, certain features like the native EPUB book reader were phased out.
Reasons Behind the Change
- Focus on Web Experiences: Microsoft shifted its focus towards enhancing core web browsing functionalities. The company aimed to prioritize features that would broadly benefit all users of the browser, thus streamlining operations and reducing less commonly used functionalities like the EPUB reader.
- Maintenance and Support Issues: Supporting an EPUB reader within a web browser involves continuous updates and security patches specific to that feature, which might have drawn resources away from more critical browser functions.
- Market Demand and Usage: It’s possible that the usage statistics for the EPUB reader in Edge were not high enough to justify its continued development, especially when numerous third-party readers are available.
Alternatives for Reading EPUB Files
With the removal of EPUB support in Edge, users need to find alternative software to read their EPUB files. Fortunately, there are several robust options available:
- Dedicated E-Book Readers: Applications like Calibre, Adobe Digital Editions, and Apple Books offer excellent EPUB file support. These programs provide extensive features for managing and reading e-books, far beyond what was available in Edge.
- Browser Extensions: For those who prefer to stick with browser-based solutions, Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox offer extensions and add-ons that can read EPUB files. Extensions like “EPUBReader” for Firefox and “Readium” for Chrome provide functionality similar to what was available in Edge.
- Convert EPUB Files: If you prefer using a reader that does not support EPUB, converting your EPUB files into PDF or other widely supported formats is another solution. Tools like Calibre can convert EPUB files to almost any other e-book format, maintaining a high level of formatting fidelity.
Conclusion
Understanding how to view EPUB files across various devices and platforms ensures a seamless reading experience. Whether using dedicated software like Calibre, built-in programs like Apple Books, or browser extensions, each method offers effective solutions for accessing and enjoying your digital books. By familiarizing yourself with these tools, you can easily open and read EPUB files, enhancing your enjoyment and productivity in the digital reading landscape.
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- Source: https://www.techpluto.com/how-to-view-epub-files/
