Readest

Readest is an open-source desktop app that provides a cross-platform environment for reading ebooks. It serves as a modern rewrite of Foliate, focusing on immersive reading and library organization. The software is available for macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, and as a web application, allowing users to maintain a consistent reading environment regardless of their hardware.

Users can manage their entire ebook collection within the app, utilizing various view modes to suit their preference. Installation is available via the App Store for Apple devices, Flathub for Linux, or through direct downloads from GitHub for Windows and Android. The application supports a wide range of digital book formats for local reading and provides tools to organize and sort a personal library efficiently.

Key features

• Support for EPUB, MOBI, KF8, FB2, CBZ, TXT, and PDF formats
• Synchronization of reading progress, notes, and bookmarks across platforms
• Integration with OPDS and Calibre for accessing online catalogs
• Parallel Read mode for viewing two documents in a split-screen layout
• Text-to-speech support with multilingual narration
• Built-in dictionary and Wikipedia lookup for instant term definitions
• Translation capabilities via DeepL and Yandex
• Code syntax highlighting for technical manuals
• Accessibility support for screen readers including NVDA, Orca, and VoiceOver

The application is built using Next.js 16 and Tauri v2, combining web technologies with a Rust-based backend for desktop performance. It includes specialized tools for deep reading, such as a reading ruler, paragraph-by-paragraph mode, and speed reading aids. For users of e-ink devices, it offers specific synchronization with Koreader to keep notes and progress consistent between the desktop and handheld hardware. It also supports full keyboard navigation to assist users who prefer not to use a mouse.

Readest is a versatile tool for avid readers and students who require a synchronized, format-agnostic reader across multiple operating systems.