Is Overdrive app going away? That seems to be the question on the minds of many digital audiobook enthusiasts and library patrons. Overdrive has been a go-to app for millions of readers for years, offering an extensive library of digital audiobooks that can be downloaded for free with a valid library card. But rumors have been circulating recently that Overdrive may be on the way out, leaving users to wonder what the future holds for their beloved app.
For many of us, Overdrive has been a game-changer. The ability to access vast collections of audio books without leaving the house has been a godsend, particularly during this time of pandemic-induced lockdowns. However, as we all know, nothing good lasts forever. Whether the rumors about Overdrive app going away are true or not remain to be seen, but we can’t help but wonder what the future holds for digital audiobooks.
So what does the potential loss of Overdrive mean for avid audiobook listeners? Will we have to resort to purchasing every book we want to listen to, or is there a viable alternative waiting in the wings? As someone who has relied on Overdrive for years, I can safely say that this news has me feeling more than a little anxious. But until we have more information, all we can do is hope that the audiobook gods are smiling down upon us, just waiting to deliver us our next great listen.
Overdrive App Alternatives
If you’re an avid reader who loves to borrow ebooks from your local library, you may have heard the news that Overdrive App is going away. But don’t worry, there are plenty of alternatives out there to help you keep reading! Here are some of the best alternatives:
- Libby: Created by Overdrive App, Libby is their new and improved reading app. It offers an updated user interface and enhanced features, such as the ability to download audiobooks. It’s free to download and use on your phone or tablet.
- Hoopla: Hoopla Digital is another app that lets you borrow ebooks and audiobooks from your local library. It’s available on multiple platforms, and offers a wide variety of titles and genres. The app also allows you to stream movies, music and comics. Best of all, Hoopla doesn’t have any waitlists!
- BookFusion: If you’re looking for alternatives to Overdrive App that offer a more social reading experience, try BookFusion. It lets you read and discuss books with other readers in real-time, track your reading goals, and access a variety of reading recommendations.
End of support for Overdrive app
The Overdrive app, which has been a popular choice for ebook and audiobook borrowing from libraries for years, is nearing its end of support. In a recent statement, Overdrive announced that they will be discontinuing support for their classic app on September 30, 2021.
- This announcement means that users of the classic Overdrive app will no longer be able to borrow ebooks or audiobooks from their local libraries after September 30, 2021.
- Instead, users will have to switch to the newer app called Libby which offers the same great features but with a more user-friendly interface.
- Libby app is easy to use, visually-appealing, and is highly loved by readers all over the world.
The announcement has been met with mixed reactions from users of the classic app. Some users have expressed disappointment that they will have to switch to a new app, while others are excited about the improved design and user experience that Libby offers.
As for libraries, they have already started promoting and preparing for the switch. Many libraries have been notifying their patrons of the upcoming changes and have been offering resources to help them transition smoothly to the Libby app. Additionally, the switch to Libby is expected to reduce the burden of library staff as it is more intuitive for users to use.
| Overdrive classic app | Libby app |
|---|---|
| Complex interface | User-friendly interface |
| Needs updating frequently | Automatic updates |
| No read-aloud feature | Read-aloud feature available |
The end of support for the classic Overdrive app marks a new chapter for the app as it transitions over to Libby. While some users may be hesitant about switching to a new app, it is important to remember that the new app offers the same features and benefits with an improved user experience.
Overdrive app versus Libby app
If you’re an avid reader, you’re probably familiar with Overdrive and Libby. Both of these apps allow you to borrow ebooks and audiobooks from your local library, but they have some key differences. Here’s what you need to know:
Functionality
- Overdrive has been around since 2002 and was originally designed for desktop use. The app was later added in 2010, and it’s now one of the most popular ways to borrow ebooks and audiobooks from libraries.
- Libby, on the other hand, was designed specifically for mobile devices. It was released in 2017 and is meant to be a more user-friendly and streamlined version of Overdrive.
- Both apps have similar functionality, but Libby has a few extra features, like the ability to sign in to multiple libraries and a simplified checkout process.
User Interface
If you’re someone who cares about aesthetics and user experience, you’ll probably prefer Libby over Overdrive. Libby has a clean, streamlined interface that’s easy to navigate, while Overdrive can feel a bit clunky and overwhelming at times.
That being said, Overdrive has been around longer, so it has a more robust set of features and customization options. For example, Overdrive allows you to adjust the font size and style, while Libby doesn’t offer this option.
Compatibility
If you’re someone who likes to switch between devices, you’ll want to pay attention to compatibility. Overdrive is available on a wide variety of devices, including PCs, Macs, iOS devices, Android devices, and Kindle. Libby, on the other hand, is only available on iOS and Android devices.
Conclusion
| Overdrive | Libby |
|---|---|
| Pros: More features, available on more devices | Pros: User-friendly interface, simplified checkout process |
| Cons: Clunky interface, not as user-friendly | Cons: Limited device compatibility, fewer customization options |
Ultimately, which app you prefer will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Both apps are great tools for borrowing ebooks and audiobooks from your local library, and you can’t go wrong with either one.
Current issues with Overdrive app
The Overdrive app has been a staple in the world of digital borrowing for years. However, users have experienced several issues with the app that have caused frustration and inconvenience. Here are some of the most common issues:
- The app crashes frequently, especially when downloading titles.
- Users have reported difficulty accessing their borrowed items, with some titles disappearing from their accounts.
- The app has a complicated user interface that is not intuitive for new users.
These issues have led many users to question whether the Overdrive app is still the best option for digital borrowing. With the rise of other digital lending platforms such as Libby and Hoopla, users have more options than ever before.
Despite these issues, there are also positives to using Overdrive. For one, the platform offers a wider selection of titles than most other digital lending platforms. Overdrive also partners with libraries throughout the world, making it accessible to a larger audience than many competitors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide selection of titles | Complicated user interface |
| Partnerships with libraries worldwide | Frequent crashes when downloading titles |
| Difficulty accessing borrowed items |
Overall, whether the Overdrive app is still the best option for digital borrowing depends on the user’s individual needs. It is important to weigh the pros and cons and consider alternatives before making a decision.
Overdrive app update information
Overdrive, the popular app used by millions of library patrons around the world to borrow and read ebooks, is undergoing some changes. The app, owned by Rakuten OverDrive, recently announced that it will be replaced by a new platform called Libby. Here’s what you need to know:
- Libby will be a brand new app, designed to make borrowing and reading ebooks even easier than before. According to OverDrive, it will offer a streamlined experience, with a simpler interface and more intuitive navigation.
- Existing users of the Overdrive app will be able to continue using it until it is retired at the end of 2021. However, the company is encouraging users to switch to Libby as soon as possible to take advantage of the improved features.
- The new app will offer improved integration with other library services, such as audiobooks and digital magazines. It will also offer more customization options, allowing users to tailor their reading experience to their preferences.
Overall, the transition to Libby represents an exciting change for users of the Overdrive app. With its improved features and simplified design, it promises to offer a better reading experience for library patrons everywhere.
| Overdrive app | Libby app |
|---|---|
| Clunky interface | Sleek, user-friendly interface |
| Limited customization options | More customization options for users |
| Separate apps for audiobooks and magazines | Integrated access to audiobooks and magazines |
If you’re a fan of the Overdrive app, don’t worry – you still have plenty of time to switch over to Libby. But with its improved features and more user-friendly interface, the new app promises to be a welcome change for library patrons everywhere.
Overdrive app user reviews
With the announcement of Overdrive app’s discontinuation, many users shared their thoughts and opinions on the app. Looking through different platforms and reviews, there were mixed reactions and feedback from users.
- Some users expressed their sadness and disappointment over the app’s abrupt ending. They have been using the app for years and appreciated its usefulness and convenience.
- On the other hand, some users have criticized the app’s performance, claiming they had difficulties with accessing books or the app crashing.
- There were also some concerns about alternative options as the app was a popular choice for obtaining ebooks from libraries.
User reviews on the Overdrive website
Overdrive’s website featured a section solely dedicated to user reviews. There were over 1,500 reviews from users who shared their experience and feedback on the app. The reviews were mixed, with an average of a 3.7-star rating out of 5.
User reviews on app stores
Users can also access Overdrive app reviews from app stores such as the App Store or the Google Play Store. The feedback from users on these platforms were also mixed, with some praising the app’s features and others criticizing its performance.
Some popular alternatives to Overdrive app
After the announcement of Overdrive app’s discontinuation, users were left looking for replacements to obtain ebooks from libraries. Some popular alternatives include:
| Alternative | Description |
|---|---|
| Libby | An app that allows users to access ebooks and audiobooks from their local library system. |
| Hoopla | Similar to Libby, users can access ebooks, audiobooks, and other digital media from their local library using this app. |
| Rakuten OverDrive | A revamped version of the Overdrive app, where users can still access library ebooks and audiobooks. |
While it may take some time for users to adjust to new options, there are still viable alternatives available.
Overdrive app download statistics
The Overdrive app has been a popular platform for readers to borrow and read eBooks and audiobooks from their local library system. The app provides access to millions of titles and allows users to read or listen to them on their mobile devices.
Over the years, the app has gained a significant user base, and its download statistics are a testament to its success. Here are some key figures:
- The Overdrive app has been downloaded over 45 million times globally.
- Over 65% of library systems in the US offer eBooks and audiobooks through Overdrive.
- The app has been downloaded over 12 million times from the Google Play Store alone.
With such a large number of downloads and users, it’s clear that the Overdrive app has been a popular choice for readers over the years. However, with the recent announcement that the app will be going away, users are left wondering what their options are.
What does the end of Overdrive app mean for users?
The end of the Overdrive app doesn’t mean the end of borrowing eBooks and audiobooks from your local library. Users will still be able to borrow and read titles through other apps and platforms offered by their library system.
In fact, the company behind Overdrive, Rakuten Overdrive, has already introduced a new app called Libby, which is designed to provide an even better user experience than the original Overdrive app.
Comparison of Overdrive and Libby
Here’s a comparison of Overdrive vs. Libby:
| Features | Overdrive | Libby |
|---|---|---|
| User Interface | Can be overwhelming | Sleek and easy to navigate |
| Reading Experience | Requires Adobe Digital Editions to download books | Downloads books automatically within app |
| Borrowing | Borrowed books don’t always sync between devices | Borrowed books sync across all devices |
Overall, Libby is a more user-friendly app that provides a smoother user experience compared to the original Overdrive app. Additionally, Libby’s seamless integration with the user’s library system makes borrowing and reading eBooks and audiobooks easier and more efficient.
While the Overdrive app may be going away, it’s clear that the company is still committed to providing a high-quality digital reading experience for users through its new app, Libby.
Is Overdrive App Going Away FAQs
1. Is Overdrive App Discontinuing its Services?
No, Overdrive App is not going away; it will continue to provide its services to its users.
2. Are there any Changes in Overdrive App Features?
Overdrive App has not made any announcement about any changes in its features or services.
3. Do I need to Pay for Overdrive App Services?
Overdrive App provides access to free and paid eBooks, audiobooks, and other media content on its platform. Some content may require a subscription or rental fee.
4. What Devices are Compatible with Overdrive App?
Overdrive App is available for use on Android and iOS devices, as well as on various e-reader devices.
5. Is Overdrive App Safe to Use?
Yes, Overdrive App is safe to use. It has a reputation for being a reliable source for downloading eBooks and audiobooks for various devices.
6. Can I Access Overdrive App outside of the United States?
Yes, Overdrive App’s services are available to users in various countries across the globe.
7. How Do I Get Help if I Have a Problem Using Overdrive App?
If you are experiencing any technical issues with Overdrive App, you can contact their customer support team through email or phone, which is available on their website.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for reading this article on Overdrive App’s services. At this time, there is no indication that the app is going away. Overdrive App continues to provide a reliable source of eBooks and audiobooks for users across the globe. Please visit us again later for more updates on Overdrive App and its services.