Latest news with #digitalcomics
Gizmodo
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Gizmodo
Out of the Ashes of Comixology, a New Digital Comics Platform Rises
Amazon's catastrophic mishandling of Comixology–leading to its shuttering and folding into the Kindle platform at the end of 2023–has left a huge hole in the internet for comics readers wanting a similar, broad marketplace for digital comics. Now, at long last, it might be coming, with the help of a few former Comixology veterans. Announced this week, former Comixology executives David Steinberger and Chip Mosher have created Neon Ichiban, spinning out of their comics publisher DSTLRY, a new worldwide digital comics platform that wants to offer a new potential centralized hub for comics readers after the digital marketplace largely siloed off into splintered, publisher-specific apps and services in the wake of Comixology's implosion. As well as comics from DSTLRY, Neon Ichiban is already promising a buzzy list of supporting publishers across Western comics and manga, including Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, Oni Press, Vault Comics, and Kodansha, with more to come. 'Understanding how comic book fans and people who should be fans want to shop and think about and browse doesn't exist anymore,' Steinberger, who co-founded Comixology in 2007 and helped oversee its sale to Amazon in 2014, said in an interview with the New York Times. 'The Comixology app, where you can have all your comics in one place, does not exist anymore. It's all just part of Kindle.' Aside from the standard appeals of a combined library from multiple publishers, offering day-and-date digital releases, as well as offline access to comics (and direct downloads of purchased issues per individual publisher allowance), Neon Ichiban also wants to bring elements of physical comic book collecting into the digital realm. Steinberger and Mosher have already experimented with some of these plans with DSTLRY's own digital releases, like exclusive variant covers–as well as the ability for creators to offer unique digital remarques and sketches, or to add signatures, giving collectors unique variants in their own rights. That uniqueness is important in another fundamental pillar of Neon Ichiban's offerings: the ability for users to buy and sell comics through a secondary market on the platform, which, aside from providing benefits to the users, will also benefits go towards publishers (if they agree to participate) and individual creative teams too. Neon Ichiban is set to launch next month–and time will tell if it will amass the support form both comics fans and publishers alike fill the massive gap in digital comics that Amazon left behind.
Forbes
a day ago
- Business
- Forbes
Marvel, DC Sign On To New Digital Comics Platform From Ex-Amazon Team
Neon Ichiban, a new digital comics marketplace with an elite pedigree from publisher DSTLRY, will launch with new and backlist material from Marvel Entertainment, DC Comics, Dark Horse Comics, Kodansha, Oni Press, Vault Comics and DSTLRY's own titles, according to the company's announcement today. Neon Ichiban will offer individual issues for sale to read and download, plus unique features that allow the signatures and remarques of digital issues and resale of limited-edition items on the site's marketplace. The website and mobile reader app are slated to launch later this summer, with Android and IoS apps in development and expected to follow shortly, according to the company. 'We're trying to bring the fun of comic collecting to digital,' says DSTLRY cofounder/CEO David Steinberger in an exclusive interview. 'Whether that's being able to download your favorite comic as a PDF, getting it signed or sketched on, or being able to sell it to another collector. We're building a hub for both readers and collectors.' Though DSTLRY has only been around since 2023, Steinberger and cofounder/CCO Chip Mosher are no strangers to the world of digital comics. Steinberger (with John Roberts) cofounded the market-leading app comiXology in 2008; comics industry veteran Mosher joined in 2011, serving as head of marketing and communications before transitioning into a publishing role. When comiXology was acquired by Amazon in 2014, Steinberger was tapped to head up Amazon's entire global comics business, including operations in Japan and Europe as well as North America. Steinberger and Mosher left Amazon in 2022 as the company began folding ComiXology's brand and technology into the larger Kindle digital bookstore. It turns out their personal brand carried as much weigh as Amazon's corporate brand when it came to luring launch partners to the platform, including the critical 'Big Two' (Marvel and DC) of the comics publishing world. Sales leader Marvel Comics is bringing one of its largest licensed digital comics catalogs in recent years to the new platform, and all publishers are making both frontlist and backlist available on a pay-to-download basis. 'We sold a lot of digital comics for those publishers and we always tried to operate in a forthright and transparent way,' says Steinberger. 'A lot of the same people are still in leadership in those companies. When we told them what we were doing and showed them some of the work we had done on DSTLRY publications, they were pretty excited to come on board.' Mosher says he expects additional publishers will sign on as momentum grows. Steinberger says creators and self-publishers will eventually be able to sell their work on the site as well. As the branding suggests, Neon Ichiban isn't just about American comics. Mosher and Steinberger say that Asian manga and manwa are going to be a big area of focus, unsurprising considering how digital has taken over that industry. Kodansha, a leading publisher of manga in both Japan and North America, is also one of the launch partners. 'We have an aspiration to bring readers of all the global styles of sequential storytelling art together to experience great comics,' says Steinberger. 'We're able to use modern tools to present personalized recommendations and bridge the gaps, so everyone can see what's most interesting to them.' Mosher also emphasized the importance of having current material from the industry's top publishers visible on a single platform, given the chaos that has engulfed the comic book distribution system in recent months. 'One of the things we learned from comiXology is that digital can be a big benefit to the whole industry, because our data showed so many first-time comic readers on digital go on to buy comics in print at local retailers,' he says. 'We look forward to making print customers for the entire industry. We are a print publisher ourselves, and that's still an important part of our business.' One other lesson from comiXology is that, even with the might of Amazon behind them, digital sales of comics on a download-to-own basis hit a ceiling of about 15% of the total print market. Sure, people want to read comics, but they also want to collect them, hunt for rare variants, get them signed, and sell them. DSTLRY developed technology that enables exactly these features, which debuted on their proprietary marketplace in 2024. Now Neon Ichiban is making that functionality available to all publishers. 'We register each purchase with an edition number, and our back end transfers that edition from user to user,' explains Steinberger. 'People can see who owned it, who sold it to who, whether it got signed or remarqued. We don't use any kind of blockchain or NFTs for that. It's unnecessary. We ensure the provenance, so we avoid the issues that crushed the whole NFT thing.' The resale marketplace allows creators to supplement their income by charging for sketches and signatures on digital just as they do on physical comics. It also includes opportunities for the original publisher and creators to get a share of the revenues when books change hands. The Neon Ichiban team hopes those features, combined with their experience, industry relationships and extensive launch-day partner lineup, can help their new project gain traction in a multilayered digital comics space that includes international players like Webtoon, new subscription-based services like Global Comix, and what's left of comiXology, now largely subsumed into Amazon's Kindle and facing mounting complaints from users over lack of support. 'Once people see what we're doing, we expect to add new partners, new benefits for readers and creators and other enhancements,' says Steinberger. He and Mosher urge people interested in news and notifications about Neon Ichiban to sign up for the company's newsletter.
New York Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- New York Times
New Digital Comics Store Takes Aim at Amazon
For decades, comic book fans have had only one option for getting digital editions of Spider-Man, Batman, the Transformers or many other colorful characters on the same day they hit comic book shops. That platform, Comixology, was acquired by Amazon in 2014 and eventually absorbed into its Kindle service. The takeover left some fans grumbling that comics shouldn't get the same treatment as eBooks. Now, two industry veterans, David Steinberger and Chip Mosher, are betting they can beat Amazon at e-commerce by catering more intentionally to die-hard comic book fans. Next month, they plan to launch Neon Ichiban, a site they intend to be 'a dedicated experience for comics,' Mr. Steinberger said, after raising more than $7 million from investors in the game and movie industries. 'Understanding how comic book fans and people who should be fans want to shop and think about and browse doesn't exist anymore,' he said. 'The Comixology app, where you can have all your comics in one place, does not exist anymore. It's all just part of Kindle.' It is a head-turning statement from Mr. Steinberger, who also founded Comixology — and approved its sale to Amazon. Mr. Mosher was the head of content at Comixology. 'At the time, it seemed like the right decision,' Mr. Steinberger said. 'Our mission was to make everyone on the planet a comic fan, and Amazon clearly had the resources and the population connected to Kindle that we thought would carry that mission.' Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
U.S. Comic Books Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report 2025-2030: Digital Platforms Expand Accessibility, Print and Digital Comics Coexist as Market Grows Through Innovation and Nostalgia
Growth is driven by diverse content and digital platforms, boosting reader accessibility. Key trends include digital comics rise, print value, and entertainment synergies. U.S. Comic Books Market Dublin, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "U.S. Comic Books Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Type (Digital, Non-Digital), Format (Hard Copy, E-Book, Audiobooks), Genre (Science-Fiction, Superhero, Manga, Non-Fiction), with Growth Forecasts, 2025-2030" report has been added to U.S. Comic Books Market was valued at USD 1.23 Billion in 2024, and is projected to reach USD 2.17 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 10.10% The market growth is attributed to the continuous evolution and diversification of comic books content. Publishers have been expanding their narratives to include a wide variety of genres, themes, and culturally diverse stories, attracting a broader audience. This inclusivity has not only brought in new readers but also retained longtime fans who appreciate the fresh storytelling approaches. The integration of comic books franchises into mainstream entertainment. The adaptation of comic books into blockbuster movies, TV shows, and streaming series has not only popularized iconic characters but also created synergies between different media platforms. These adaptations often drive audiences back to the source material, boosting sales and interest in comic rise of digital platforms has played a crucial role. Digital comics have made the medium more accessible, allowing readers to explore new titles and genres conveniently. These platforms also cater to younger, tech-savvy demographics, introducing them to the world of comics without the need for physical copies. Simultaneously, traditional print comics continue to thrive, as collectors and enthusiasts value the tactile experience and nostalgia associated with physical growing presence of comic conventions and fan events has significantly contributed to the market's expansion. These events serve as hubs for community engagement, merchandise sales, and exclusive content releases, fostering a sense of belonging among fans. The vibrant fan culture surrounding comics has helped sustain and amplify their popularity across generations.U.S. Comic Books Market Report Highlights Non-digital comic books accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024, This category covers traditionally printed comic books distributed through direct market channels (specialty comic book stores), mass-market retailers, and bookshops. Print comics include single-issue periodicals, trade paperbacks, graphic novels, and collector's editions, often valued for their physical attributes, collectability, and artistic presentation. Some notable examples are Marvel and DC Comics (Single Issues & Trade Paperbacks), Manga (e.g., Shonen Jump, Kodansha, Viz Media), European Bandes Dessinees (e.g., Asterix, Tintin, Largo Winch), etc. The demand for digital comic books is expected to showcase strong growth from 2025 to 2030. This category covers comic books that are distributed, accessed, and consumed in digital formats through various online platforms, applications, and dedicated digital storefronts. Digital comics can be formatted as downloadable files (e.g., PDF, CBZ, CBR), web-based series, or app-based interactive comics, offering convenience, accessibility, and enhanced reader engagement through features like guided view technology. Hard-copy led the overall market in 2024. Hard copy covers physical comic books printed on paper and distributed through direct market comic book stores, bookstores, and mass retailers. It includes single-issue periodicals, trade paperbacks, graphic novels, and collector's editions, often valued for their tangible quality, artwork presentation, and collectability. Why Should You Buy This Report? Comprehensive Market Analysis: Gain detailed insights into the market across major regions and segments. Competitive Landscape: Explore the market presence of key players. Future Trends: Discover the pivotal trends and drivers shaping the future of the market. Actionable Recommendations: Utilize insights to uncover new revenue streams and guide strategic business decisions. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 90 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $1.23 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $2.17 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 10.1% Regions Covered United States Key Topics Covered: Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope1.1. Market Segmentation & Scope1.2. Market Definition1.3. Information Procurement1.3.1. Purchased Database1.3.2. Internal Database1.3.3. Secondary Sources & Third-Party Perspectives1.3.4. Primary Research1.4. Information Analysis1.4.1. Data Analysis Models1.5. Market Formulation & Data Visualization1.6. Data Validation & PublishingChapter 2. Executive Summary2.1. Market Snapshot2.2. Segment Snapshot2.3. Competitive Landscape SnapshotChapter 3. U.S. Comic Books Market Variables, Trends & Scope3.1. Market Lineage Outlook3.1.1. Parent Market Outlook3.1.2. Related Market Outlook3.2. Industry Value Chain Analysis3.2.1. Profit Margin Analysis (Industry-level)3.3. Market Dynamics3.3.1. Market Driver Analysis3.3.2. Market Restraint Analysis3.3.3. Market Opportunities3.3.4. Market Challenges3.4. Industry Analysis Tools3.4.1. Porter's Five Forces Analysis3.5. Market Entry StrategiesChapter 4. Consumer Behavior Analysis4.1. Demographic Analysis4.2. Consumer Trends and Preferences4.3. Factors Affecting Buying Decision4.4. Consumer Product Adoption4.5. Observations & RecommendationsChapter 5. U.S. Comic Books Market: Type Estimates & Trend Analysis5.1. U.S. Comic Books Market, by Type: Key Takeaways5.2. Type Movement Analysis & Market Share, 2024 & 20305.3. Market Estimates & Forecasts, by Type, 2018-2030 (USD Million)5.3.1. Digital5.3.2. Non-DigitalChapter 6. U.S. Comic Books Market: Format Estimates & Trend Analysis6.1. U.S. Comic Books Market, by Format: Key Takeaways6.2. Format Movement Analysis & Market Share, 2024 & 20306.3. Market Estimates & Forecasts, by Format, 2018-2030 (USD Million)6.3.1. Hard Copy6.3.2. E-Book6.3.3. AudiobooksChapter 7. U.S. Comic Books Market: Genre Estimates & Trend Analysis7.1. U.S. Comic Books Market, by Genre: Key Takeaways7.2. Genre Movement Analysis & Market Share, 2024 & 20307.3. Market Estimates & Forecasts, by Genre, 2018-2030 (USD Million)7.3.1. Science-Fiction7.3.2. Manga7.3.3. Superhero7.3.4. Non-fiction7.3.5. OthersChapter 8. U.S. Comic Books Market: Competitive Analysis8.1. Recent Developments & Impact Analysis, by Key Market Participants8.2. Company Categorization8.3. Participant's Overview8.4. Financial Performance8.5. Product Benchmarking8.6. Company Market Share Analysis, 2024 (%)8.7. Company Heat Map Analysis8.8. Strategy Mapping8.9. Company Profiles Disney Image Comics IDW Publishing Dark Horse Comic TOKYOPOP DC Comics Archie Comics DMG Entertainment Shogakukan Inc. KODANSHA USA PUBLISHING For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment U.S. Comic Books Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
