The Rise of Over-the-top Platforms in Self-Publishing
With an increase in digitalization, the writing and publishing industry is facing unprecedented changes. A number of different e-reading and publishing platforms have emerged, such as Wattpad, Inkitt, and Radish. These self-publishing platforms have experienced mixed opinions from users - readers and authors alike. Since the mid-2010s, they have gained immense popularity due to their flexibility and smooth, decipherable user interface. Most of these apps or websites are free, but they incorporate extensive use of the site’s individual system of cryptocurrency.
A popular activity among teenagers in the 2010s was to read and write fanfiction on sites like Wattpad and Inkitt. These sites began to direct their attention towards a different audience: amateur and professional writers who desire to explore other genres like fiction, romance, and even historical fiction. Furthermore, these self-publishing platforms became popular among adults. It enticed many to earn revenue via ads while cutting off the salary of editors, publishers, and graphic designers, leading to optimum profits. Some legendary books have amassed over a million views on these sites.
Readers with alternative tastes now have a way to read the works of unpublished authors, forming the primary audience of the e-publishing platforms predominantly because they want to gain a diverse reading experience. These online platforms host some of the most large-scale writing contests in the writing and publishing industry. They have collaborated with Netflix, Nike, Amazon Prime, and countless other notable brands to host themed contests for teens and adults. Wattpad’s very own “WattyAwards” are, in fact, one of the most prestigious competitions for authors on the app.
Despite the overwhelming praise these OTT platforms receive, they have also received criticism for their lack of content censorship. Many users have misused online e-reading apps and websites by putting forth unsuitable books. However, if necessary, users can voice their concerns and other constructive criticism to writers. This commenting feature gives writers an incentive to revise before making their work more widely available. These platforms are undeniably some of the biggest platforms for connecting with editors, beta readers, and book-cover designers.
Additionally, the OTT platforms in e-publishing have seen an enormous rise in users after their partnerships with leading publishing and television houses. Several self-published books, authored by Wattpad authors, have been officially published and even adapted by Netflix and other television houses. Anna Todd’s After and Beth Reekles’ Kissing Booth were released originally on Wattpad! Unbeknownst to many, they were both winners of the Wattys with lauded works.
Diversity is, perhaps, the main reason why self-publishing platforms are thriving. It is the ideal spot for teens and young adults who love to read various perspectives - whether it be in romance, non-fiction, fantasy, or even fanfiction - about their favourite characters. The platforms have a net user base of nearly 80 million worldwide - editors, authors, and readers alike! Let’s celebrate, congratulate, and thank the diverse voices of writers and readers worldwide - no matter where they reside!
