Kotobee Author vs zyBooks

Kotobee Author creates and edits interactive ebooks, with tools for importing existing PDF, HTML, Word, and EPUB files and adding interactive material. Ebooks can include video, audio, image click animations, self-assessment questions, and book widgets. AI tools can generate text, images, questions, and voice narration. For educational content, authors can add auto-graded questions, track learner scores, and connect to an organization’s learning management system through SCORM, LTI, or Tin Can. The product exports to more than 12 ebook formats, including mobile apps; listed formats include EPUB, MOBI, PDF, and Word. Users can customize ebook-app branding with their colors and logo and remove Kotobee references. HTML, CSS, and JavaScript can be added for custom functions and integrations. Kotobee says exported files belong to customers and do not collect data from their users, though formats that depend on Kotobee servers require an active subscription. Kotobee Author runs on Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web, and Windows. A free plan is available; paid plans are noted as starting from $150.

zyBooks is interactive digital courseware designed as an alternative to textbooks in STEM courses. Instructors can add custom content, create sections and chapters, and set course content and pacing. LMS integration is optional: zyBooks supports LTI 1.3 single sign-on and grade passback, with documentation for Canvas, Blackboard, Brightspace, and Moodle; activity scores can also be downloaded as CSV files. Security course materials include labs for practicing malware creation, network analysis, and vulnerability assessment. The maker describes accessibility against WCAG 2.2 A/AA, Revised Section 508, and EN 301 549, and offers accessibility modes and chapter PDFs. Access is by paid subscription, with a free evaluation available to instructors.