Episode Details

Kindle Direct Publishing announced two major updates that authors need to understand. Changes to digital rights management are raising questions, while a new ebook pre-order feature could reward authors who are prepared. We also cover AI entering the reading experience, audiobook discovery tied to BookTok, platform updates, and opportunities authors should watch heading into 2026.

• YouTube Channel Memberships – https://DaleLinks.com/Memberships
• KDP: New eBook Download Options for Readers Coming in 2026 - https://www.kdpcommunity.com/s/article/New-eBook-Download-Options-for-Readers-Coming-in-2026?language=en_US
• TechCrunch: Amazon changes how copyright protection is applied to Kindle Direct's self-published e-books - https://techcrunch.com/2025/12/10/amazon-changes-how-copyright-protection-is-applied-to-kindle-directs-self-published-ebooks/
• KDP: eBook pre-orders will soon show a reading sample on Amazon – Update - https://www.kdpcommunity.com/s/article/eBook-pre-orders-will-soon-show-a-reading-sample-on-Amazon-Update
• DigitalTrends: Google Play Books may soon let you ask Gemini questions while you read - https://www.digitaltrends.com/phones/google-play-books-may-soon-let-you-ask-gemini-questions-while-you-read/
• Amazon's New Kindle Feature Raises Concerns | Self-Publishing News (Dec. 16, 2025) - https://youtu.be/ozboaJlwhiw
• Bookvault – https://bookvault.app – Use coupon code BVDALE to waive three upload fees
• PublishDrive – Save 25% off all annual distribution plans - https://publishdrive.com/save-25-on-publishdrive-annual-plans-forever?fpr=dale10 (affiliate link) – Offer ends December 31, 2025
• Audible and TikTok Bring Best of #BookTok Sensations Direct to Listeners - https://www.audible.com/about/newsroom/audible-and-tiktok-bring-best-of-booktok-sensations-direct-to-listeners
• Get Authentic Book Reviews – https://GetAuthenticBookReviews.com
• Spoken – https://Spoken.press
• Payhip: Ecommerce Payment Gateways for Digital Products - https://payhip.com/payment-gateways?fp_ref=lym89 (affiliate link)
• Authorbase – https://DaleLInks.com/Authorbase (affiliate link)
• Written Word Media: Author Branding for Self-Published Authors: How to Build a Brand Readers Love (Without Feeling Icky About It) - https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/author-branding-for-self-published-authors
• Outstanding Creator Awards: 2025 Clash of Champions Contest (results) – https://www.outstandingcreator.com/winners--2025-clash-of-champions.html
• Reader Views Awards: "Email Marketing for Authors" by Dale L. Roberts - https://reade