OverDrive has released the newest update of their app; version 3! For Apple mobile users (iPhone, iPad), this update will only affect users whos operating systems are iOS 6 or higher. Here are some of the changes coming with the app,
Click HERE to see their YouTube preview of OMC V3.
What’s New
OMC v3.0 has been completely redesigned with a focus on making the user experience more intuitive. The Next Generation of OMC features:
- redesigned user interface with an all-new look, streamlined navigation and a one-stop reorganized menu. App functions are just a swipe and tap away.
- Users can sync bookmarks and reading progress across multiple devices using a free, opt-in registration service called OverDrive One.
- Variable speed playback for iOS. Audiobook users’ most requested feature.
- First run tutorial screens. The app now prompts first-time users to add libraries and get books.
- System Requirements: OMC v3.0 for Android users requires Android OS v4.0 (or newer). OMC for Android v2.6.5 will remain available for download. OMC for iOS requires iOS 6 (or newer).
PLEASE READ THE KNOWN APPLE ISSUE BELOW
You'll notice that under System Requirements for Apple devices, it mentions iOS 6 or higher is needed. "iOS" is the Operating System that Apple's mobile devices use (almost like newer and older versions of Windows). This means that some iDevices that cannot upgrade their iOS to 6 (or more) will literally not be able to run the new OverDrive app. I confirmed this with our First Generation iPad, which is iOS 5.
Apple does not have old versions of apps in their App store, so if your device has an incompatible iOS and you do not already have the old app, you will not be able to install ANY OverDrive app on the device. Your only App based option is to keep the old OverDrive app installed (if you already have it). First time users who have an old iOS will obviously not have the old version of OverDrive already installed.
Here is a small list of incompatible Apple iDevices:
- iPad (just the 1st Generation)
- iPod Touch (1st, 2nd, & 3rd Generations)
- iPhone (1st Generation, and 3G)
I used
THIS Wikipedia page to reference how high an iDevice's iOS could upgrade to.
THE SOLUTION (for the most part)...
These old iOS users may still check out an eBook using OverDrive READ. Once you check the eBook out, instead of choosing a format and DOWNLOADING the eBook, there is an OverDrive READ button that allows you to read the eBook right in the Safari browser. It also lets you 'Download' the eBook to the device and add it to the iDevice's home screen as if it were an app. It works pretty well but is a fairly new process. I will create a YouTube video of this process as soon as I can to show you how it works.
THE SUMMARY
- If you have an Apple iDevice with an incompatible iOS (as shown above) but already have the OverDrive app, KEEP IT, and continue to use it. DO NOT TRY TO UPDATE.
- If you have iOS 6 or higher, download and enjoy the new OverDrive V3 app!
- If you have an old iOS but do NOT have an old version of the OverDrive app installed already, you won't be able to get any version and thus, should use OverDrive READ.
I realize this is a ton of confusing information, especially if you are not an Apple user. Feel free to send any questions to my email at
mcorey@ncls.org .
