WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 8, 2005--Jiggerbug, an online audio book rental service, today announced a new way to deliver their collection of best-selling audio book titles to subscribers - digitally. Similar to the Netflix model, current Jiggerbug subscribers enjoy quick and simple mail service delivery of their favorite book titles on either CD-ROM or cassette tape.
With the new Instant Download service, Jiggerbug now allows subscribers to have the option to instantly download their favorite titles in an easy-to-use, take-it-with-you digital format. The Instant Download digital delivery is ideal for commuters, frequent gym goers or anyone who wants to create more time in their day by multitasking with an entertaining best-seller, self-help title or any of the thousands of book options available. Pricing for Jiggerbug's Instant Download service starts at $19.95 per month, and first-time users can try the service for free for two weeks. Jiggerbug.com is the only rental service for audio books that allows subscribers to rent the downloads.
The Need
Growing time demands make it difficult for many to enjoy the latest "must-read" titles. To bridge the gap between time and desire, Jiggerbug's audio books allow people to listen to their favorite book or subject during times that may otherwise be wasted (lengthy car commutes, gym time, etc.). By freeing up the hands, Jiggerbug is freeing up time for busy executives, multitasking moms and housewives or anyone who wants to make more efficient use of their day. Audio books (available on tape, CD or Instant Download) are also a solution for the elderly, beginning readers, or anyone with sight restrictions. With the new Digital Download service option, ordering is as easy as: 1) choose a title and checkout, 2) instantly download the title for immediate playback and 3) at the end of the loan, the title is automatically returned to the collection.
"Jiggerbug's expansion into digital downloads is right on target with where the market is going," said Kristy Holch, InfoTrends analyst. "Now consumers can get fast access to the books they want, in a format perfect for mobile devices like MP3 players. Books can now truly go anywhere music does. With access to the music download crowd, Jiggerbug can expand audio books beyond the traditional market. For those with Internet access, this represents a significant step toward greater utility and ease of use."
The Technology
Powered by the OverDrive Media Console, audio titles will be available in the industry-standard WMA format for easy playback on home computers or on hundreds of portable devices, including MP3 players. Users simply browse for their favorite titles, add them to their Download Cart and complete the online check-out process. Once checked out, a download page is displayed. Users simply click the provided link to download their title. At the end of the digital audio book loan period (14 days), the title will self-expire and be automatically "returned." During the loan period, most titles allow for non-expiring copies to be burned to CD or moved to a portable player.
"With podcasting and other forms of instant digital entertainment growing at near-exponential rates, we know that our new Digital Download service will be well-received by this burgeoning and savvy group of users," explained Ryan Azevedo, CEO of Jiggerbug. "We are in the process of creating the world's largest collection of best-selling audio book titles and will continue to seek out new ways and technology to make these volumes of knowledge and entertainment readily accessible. With the addition of our new all-digital offering, we are one step closer to that goal."
Designed to be fast, simple and efficient, Jiggerbug offers several membership options depending on readers' audio rental desires. The Freshman plan is $19.95 for unlimited mail service rentals sent one at a time. For fast "readers," the Commuter plan offers two mail service titles at the same time plus one additional Instant Download every 14 days for $24.95 per month. For the true book aficionado (heavy readers who want five or more at a time plus two additional simultaneous Instant Downloads every 14 days) a premium membership, the Bookworm, is offered at $39.95 per month.
About Jiggerbug
Started in 2002 by Internet entrepreneur Ryan Azevedo and LA Auto Show owner Lisa Kaz, Jiggerbug offers over 25,000 titles of audio books, home study courses and seminars. Designed to be fast, simple and efficient, rental orders are processed and delivered within two to four days and Instant Download services are also available for immediate download-and-go use. Jiggerbug is located at 8721 Sunset Blvd. in West Hollywood. For more information, visit www.jiggerbug.com.
- Companies:
- InfoTrends / CAP Ventures
- Overdrive Inc.
- Places:
- WEST HOLLYWOOD