Readwise, known for its digital reading companion app, has introduced Readwise Books, a combined e-book store and reading tracker designed to challenge Amazon’s Kindle and Goodreads with unique data insights and AI tools.
- Combines e-book store with reading tracker and AI features
- Offers detailed reading statistics like pace, depth, and immersion
- Supports open technology with public API and collaborative AI tools
What happened
Readwise has launched Readwise Books, an app that merges an e-book store with comprehensive reading tracking and AI-powered features. The app offers millions of e-books from major publishers, print books via Bookshop.org, and some audiobooks, initially available in the U.S. The platform enables readers to visualize reading metrics such as words read, reading pace, session details, depth, and immersion.
This new offering aims to provide an all-in-one experience akin to a hybrid of Kindle and Goodreads. Users can track books across various formats, including Kindle’s Cloud Reader and physical books, as well as upload DRM-free EPUB files. The app is currently in beta and requires an invite unless the user is already a Readwise subscriber.
Why it matters
Amazon dominates the e-book industry with an 83% market share including Kindle Unlimited, providing a tightly integrated ecosystem of devices, content, and tracking tools. Readwise’s entry is notable as one of the few indie attempts to directly compete with Amazon’s e-book store and Goodreads, introducing richer reading analytics and social capabilities to foster deeper engagement.
By focusing on data-driven insights that liken reading progress tracking to fitness apps like Strava, Readwise seeks to motivate readers through visibility of effort rather than traditional motivators such as streaks or rigid goal-setting. Its open approach with a public API and AI support also contrasts with Goodreads’ closed system, potentially enabling innovative integrations and personalized reading assistance.
What to watch next
The expansion of Readwise Books beyond the U.S. and the adoption of its platform by more publishers will be key indicators of its potential to scale and challenge Amazon’s dominance. Publisher participation is currently limited, with only HarperCollins having signed on for AI-powered features such as session recaps and in-text lookups.
Additionally, Readwise’s strategy to enhance community features and capitalize on AI tools—such as personalized book recommendations and automated logging via readers or AI agents—could drive user engagement and differentiate the platform. Monitoring how the app balances free offerings with upcoming AI feature subscriptions will also be crucial for long-term sustainability.