How do I setup and
use my eReader?
Everything you need to know about these mobile
electronic reading devices and how to get access
to thousands of ebooks, digital magazines and
newspapers.
Updated 12 Nov 2018
What is an eReader?
An eReader is a mobile device about the size of a tablet that lets you read digital newspapers, magazines and ebooks stored in the cloud.
You’ll have access to tens of thousands of titles from ebooks and audio files with your eReader no matter where you are - it’s an electronic bookshelf at your fingertips.
Read anything, anywhere:
eReaders boast a range of features that make them ideal for reading on the go:
- Storage space for thousands of ebooks
- No screen glare
- Built in light for better night-time reading
- Synced bookmark
- Large storage space (8 GB or 32 GB)
- Weeks of battery life
- Some devices are also waterproof
How does an eReader work?
eReaders are designed to be a single purpose device with wireless connectivity. You can then access their online store for downloading ebooks without connecting the device to a computer.
- Reading from your eReader is similar to reading a newspaper or book. The built-in light feature allows you to read with ease in direct sunlight or in darkness.
- You can quickly and easily remember where pages are in your ebooks by using bookmarks, also known as dog-ears.
- You can also synchronise your tablet, smartphone or desktop to your eReaders via their app.
Good to know
Because they’re essentially just a reading device, eReaders are often cheaper than tablets. Some eReaders do offer web browsing and colour, but screen resolution is lower than on tablets.
Which eReaders are most common in Australia?
Kindle
Amazon Kindle is the most popular eReader worldwide. There are over 1 million titles and thousands of audiobooks to purchase from the Kindle store, with some titles also available free.
Kobo
Rakuten Kobo has over 5 million ebooks and magazines to choose from their ebookstore. The open platform supports a variety of platforms allowing you to purchase from many sources.
Need more information?
- If you have a Kindle eReader click here to get started
- If you have a Kobo learn more here
How do I get books on to my eReader?
Finding ebooks is similar to using a library’s computer catalogue by searching for a title or browsing by category. Before getting started, make sure you are connected to the internet, and check that your preferred credit card (supplied when registering an account), is still within expiry. for those you need to buy, however some ebooks are free to access. If you intend to borrow ebooks from your local library, and you haven't purchased an eReader yet, check with them before you do to see which format of ebook they have. This could help you decide which one to get.
Setup your Kindle
- Register your Kindle
- Tap ‘My Account’
- Search an ebook then click ‘Buy Now’
- Click on the ebook in ‘My Library’
From ‘Home’, tap the Menu symbol then tap ‘Settings’
Enter your billing information during setup
If there are multiple devices linked to your account, select one to ‘Deliver’ the file to
Setup your Kobo
- Setup an account at kobo.com then Log in
- Search an ebook
- Tap the ‘Buy’ icon
- Tap ‘Continue’ to ‘Confirm’ order
Tap the ‘Browse’ icon located on the home screen
Billing information may be saved here for future purchases
You are now ready to ‘Read’ your ebook
Turn your laptop into an eReader
You can download ebooks directly to your laptop and use it like an eReader. You can also transfer ebooks back and forth between your laptop and an eReader.
These instructions are for Windows 7. Other Windows versions are similar.
- Setup an account and Sign in
- Search for an ebook to purchase
- Select ‘Manage Your Content and Devices’
- Connect your eReader to your computer
Go to your preferred eReader website provider e.g. Amazon for Kindle
This is located under ‘Your Account’
Copy ebooks from your computer to your eReader found in the ‘Documents Folder’
Turn your smart phone into an eReader
Download the Kindle/Kobo app
Sign in with your Amazon/Kobo account
Click on sync to download your ebooks
Where can I use my eReader?
Anywhere! Once you’ve downloaded an ebook you can read offline wherever you find yourself. Or read online wherever you can access a Wi-Fi network.
Can I read in the bath?
Many new models are now waterproof so you can read in the bath or by the pool without worry.
How much storage space do eReaders have?
Most eReaders offer 8GB, which is about 5,000 ebooks! Some latest models now offer 32GB.
How much battery life does my eReader have?
A single charge lasts up to several weeks depending on wireless usage. Reduce your battery drainage by switching Bluetooth off and adjusting down the light setting.
We’re here to help
Unsure how to use your eReader? Talk to the experts at Telstra Platinum and we’ll sort it out for you.
Call 13 75 87
Outside Australia call +612 9242 0570
What else can Telstra Platinum help me with?
Whether your service or technology is from Telstra or another provider, our tech experts can help you. They’re available 24x7 over the phone and online to help you with your mobile, tablet, Wi-Fi, email, smart home and connected devices, data back-up and more. It’s all part of a Telstra Platinum subscription.
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