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.mobi File Extension

File Type Mobipocket eBook

Developer Amazon
Category e-books
File Format Binary

MOBI file type

A MOBI file is an eBook saved in the MOBI format, a format originally used by the Mobipocket Reader but now supported by several different readers. It contains an eBook and may incorporate DRM copyright protection to prevent copying or unauthorized viewing. MOBI files are supported by various eReaders, tablets, PDAs, and desktop computer applications.

More Information

Screenshot of a .mobi file in Calibre 3

MOBI file open in Calibre 3

Amazon's new Kindle Format 8 (KF8) is based on the MOBI format. KF8 supports many new formatting and layout options, including HTML5 and CSS3 content and embedded fonts. KF8-formatted eBooks are saved and distributed as ".mobi" files or as .AZW3 files, depending on the device that downloads the eBook. eBook authors can compile KF8 books using Amazon's KingleGen software. Before distribution, authors can preview KF8 eBooks on a Mac or PC with Amazon's Kindle Previewer software.

Amazon now owns the MOBI format. Amazon's eBook formats, including .AZW, .AZW1, and AZW3, use the MOBI format but incorporate a proprietary DRM scheme.

NOTE: Mobipocket eBooks also use the .PRC extension.

Programs that open MOBI files

Windows
Adobe RoboHelp
Amazon Kindle for PC
Calibre
Cool Reader
Geometer Plus FBReader
Icecream Ebook Reader
BookDesigner
Linux
Calibre
Cool Reader
Geometer Plus FBReader
MBP reader
Android
Cool Reader
Macintosh
Amazon Kindle for Mac
Calibre
PatiSoftware theLibrarian
Cool Reader
Geometer Plus FBReader
Amazon Kindle Previewer

About MOBI Files

Our goal is to explain what .mobi file is used for for and how to open it.

File Mobipocket eBook usage cases for Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS software listed on this page have been individually researched and verified using the FilesWiki team. We strive for 100% accuracy and only publish information about file formats that we have tested and verified.