Apple on Wednesday launched Japanese-language electronic books in Japan, a move likely to further intensify competition with online retailer Amazon.com Inc.
E-books purchased via Apple's website iBookstore can be read on such devices as iPad tablet computers and iPhones. Users will be able to download e-books via free application software.
The U.S. technology giant is offering titles by major domestic publishers, including Kodansha Ltd., Kadokawa Group Publishing Co. and Bungeishunju Ltd.