Amazon is bringing a new twist to reading with its AI-powered tools, but not everyone is happy. The company has introduced a feature called “Ask This Book” on the Kindle app for iOS in the US. It lets readers ask questions about the book they’re reading, like details about characters or plot points and get instant, spoiler-free answers.
The AI only uses the part of the book the reader has reached, so surprises aren’t ruined. Readers can access it from the in-book menu or by highlighting text. Amazon says it already works with thousands of popular English-language titles and plans to roll it out on Kindle devices and Android next year.
Alongside this, Amazon is experimenting with “Ask My Book,” which can generate responses directly from the full text of a book. While these tools make reading more interactive, some authors and publishers are uneasy. They worry about copyright and consent issues, questioning whether their words are being used without permission and if they can control how AI uses their work. At the moment, there’s no option for authors to opt out, which has sparked debate in the publishing world.
For readers, the tools are convenient and engaging. They allow quick clarification of confusing parts, background on characters, or explanations of storylines, all without leaving the Kindle app or spoiling the story. Amazon frames the AI as a way to enhance the reading experience and help readers enjoy books in a new, digital way.
The introduction of AI into reading highlights a growing tension: how to balance new technology and interactive experiences with authors’ rights and creative control. Amazon’s features show what the future of digital reading might look like, but they also raise important questions about ownership and consent in an AI-driven world.
