For iPhone (Apple Books or Third-Party Apps)
- Check the EPUB File Format – Please note this is not for use on Kindle. Must be purchased through Amazon KDP for the correct file extension.
Ensure the file is indeed an EPUB format and not a different eBook format (like MOBI or PDF).
Files should end in .epub. - Open with Apple Books
Apple Books is the default EPUB reader on iOS devices. To open an EPUB:
Tap the EPUB file in your Files app or Email attachment.
If it doesn’t automatically open in Apple Books, you may need to select “Open In” and choose Apple Books. - Check for Updates
Make sure that Apple Books is updated to the latest version from the App Store. - Reinstall Apple Books (If Not Opening)
If the app crashes or doesn’t open EPUB files, try reinstalling it:
Tap and hold the Apple Books app icon.
Select Delete, then reinstall from the App Store. - Try a Different App
If Apple Books isn’t working, download a third-party EPUB reader, such as:
Bluefire Reader
Marvin
Bookari
For Android Phones (Google Play Books or Third-Party Apps)
- Open with Google Play Books
If you use Google Play Books, ensure you’ve uploaded the EPUB to your Google Play Books library first. Here’s how:
Go to the Google Play Books website on a desktop or laptop.
Upload the EPUB file to your library by clicking on My Books > Upload Files.
Once uploaded, the book will sync to your phone under Google Play Books. - Check File Location
If you have the EPUB file stored on your phone:
Locate the file in your file manager or Downloads folder.
Open it with a supported app, like Moon+ Reader or Aldiko. - Use a Third-Party App
Many Android users prefer third-party apps for EPUB files:
Moon+ Reader: Popular and customizable.
Aldiko: Easy to use with EPUB support.
FBReader: Supports multiple eBook formats, including EPUB. - Enable Unknown Sources (If Needed)
If you’re installing an app from outside the Google Play Store (e.g., Moon+ Reader), you may need to enable “Install from unknown sources” in your device settings:
Go to Settings > Security > Enable Install from Unknown Sources. - Clear Cache/Storage of the App
If the app is acting up (e.g., not loading or crashing), try clearing the cache or data:
Go to Settings > Apps > [Your EPUB Reader App] > Storage > Clear Cache or Clear Data.
E-Readers that Support EPUB
One of the leading competitors to Kindle, Kobo devices (e.g., Kobo Clara HD, Kobo Aura, Kobo Libra) support EPUB files natively.
Nook (Barnes & Noble)
Nook e-readers (e.g., Nook GlowLight) also support EPUB, making them a great choice for non-Kindle readers.
PocketBook
PocketBook e-readers, such as the PocketBook Touch HD, support EPUB files.
Sony Reader
Older Sony e-readers, like the Sony PRS-T3, support EPUB as well.
Onyx Boox
A line of e-readers that supports EPUB, as well as other formats like PDF and MOBI.
Apple Books (iOS Devices)
While iPhones and iPads use Apple Books to read EPUB files, they also allow for seamless file transfer and access.
Aldiko and Moon+ Reader (Android Apps)
For Android devices, both Aldiko and Moon+ Reader apps support EPUB files, turning your phone or tablet into an EPUB reader.