Top 5 Android eBook Apps

The Kindle App for Android lets you read all of your Kindle ebooks on an Android device, even if you don't own a Kindle eBook Reader. If you do have a Kindle, you can read your ebooks on both the Kindle and Android device. Your reading progress will be synced between the devices with Amazon's "Whispersinc". As with the Kindle itself and other Kindle apps, you can access free content and ebooks for $9.99.

Download: Go to the Kindle for Android webpage and scan the barcode with your device. Or, while on your phone you can search for "Kindle" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher

eBooks Supported: Amazon Kindle ebooks in the AZW format that are only sold at Amazon.com/Kindle

The Android Nook App from Barnes & Noble lets you read all of the Nook ebooks on your Android device without having to own a Nook eBook Reader. Barnes & Noble's Nook system is unique in that it will let you lend ebooks with their "LendMe" software. You can also sample any of the Nook ebooks for free before you buy.

Download: Get the Android app at B&N's Nook for Android page. You can scan the barcode shown with your phone, or search for "NOOK" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher

eBooks Supported: If you want to read ebooks using the Nook App, then you should get ebooks from Barnes & Noble's Nook store.

The Sony Reader Android app comes pre-loaded with three classic titles and three excerpts from bestselling ebooks. You can sync your reading position, bookmarks, and highlights to Reader Daily Edition (PRS-950SC with firmware 2.0). Like the other apps, you can also read Sony Reader ebooks even if you don't have a Sony Reader.

Download: Get information on the Sony Reader for Android webpage. You can find the app in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 2.2 or higher

eBooks Supported: If you want to read Sony Reader ebooks on your Android device, get them from Sony's Reader Store.

With the Kobo Android app, you can buy ebooks from inside the app and download them directly to your phone. Take your entire library with you on the go. You can find all of your favorite titles and authors in Kobo's large ebook selection.

Download: Go to the Kobo Android App webpage for information. Click the blue button in the middle of the page that says "View QR Code" to view the barcode that you can scan with your phone. Or, find the Kobo App in the Android Market on your phone.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher

eBooks Supported: If you want to use the Kobo Android app, you should download eBooks from the Kobo eReader store.

The Aldiko Android App gives ebook lovers an alternative to apps from the bigger book companies listed above. With Aldiko, you are not locked into one ebook store. Instead, you can buy ebooks from any ebook retailer that sells Adobe PDF or EPUB ebooks. You can download ebooks directly to your device without needing to use your computer. Import your own content and create your own ebook catalogs.

Download: Scan the barcode shown on the Aldiko Features page, or find Aldiko in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 2.1 or higher

eBooks Supported: The Aldiko Book Reader supports Adobe-DRMed ePub and PDF as well as non-encrypted ePub and PDF formats. Get eBooks anywhere ePub and PDF eBooks are sold or available for free. Try eBookMall.com for paid ebooks and look in the Aldiko app for free ebooks. You can also get ebooks from your public library (where supported).