Convert TEX to MOBI

Why Convert LaTeX to MOBI?

Converting LaTeX documents to MOBI format enables you to read academic and technical content on Amazon Kindle devices. With over 100 million Kindle users worldwide, MOBI format provides access to the largest e-reader ecosystem. Your LaTeX documents become portable, readable anywhere with the Kindle app.

MOBI (Mobipocket) format was developed by Mobipocket SA in 2000 and acquired by Amazon in 2005. It became the foundation for Kindle's e-book ecosystem. While Amazon now uses the newer AZW3/KF8 format for enhanced features, MOBI remains compatible with all Kindle devices, including older models.

For academics and researchers, converting LaTeX to MOBI means your papers, books, and documentation can be read on Kindle during commutes, travel, or anywhere without a computer. Students can study your materials on their preferred devices with Kindle's built-in dictionary, highlighting, and note-taking features.

Amazon's Send to Kindle feature also accepts MOBI files, making it easy to deliver documents directly to any Kindle device. This is particularly useful for distributing course materials, research papers, or technical documentation to colleagues and students.

Key Benefits of Converting TEX to MOBI:

• Kindle Compatibility: Works on all Kindle devices and apps
• Massive User Base: Access 100+ million Kindle users
• Whispersync: Sync reading progress across devices
• Built-in Features: Dictionary, highlights, notes
• E-Ink Reading: Comfortable long-form reading
• Send to Kindle: Easy document delivery
• Offline Access: Read anywhere without internet

Practical Examples

Example 1: Textbook for Kindle

Input TEX file (textbook.tex):

\documentclass{book}
\title{Introduction to Data Science}
\author{Prof. Michael Chen}
\begin{document}
\maketitle

\chapter{What is Data Science?}
Data science combines statistics,
programming, and domain expertise
to extract insights from data.

\section{Key Skills}
\begin{enumerate}
  \item Statistical analysis
  \item Programming (Python, R)
  \item Machine learning
  \item Data visualization
\end{enumerate}

\section{Tools of the Trade}
Popular tools include \textbf{Jupyter
notebooks}, pandas, and scikit-learn.

Result: MOBI e-book that students can read on any Kindle device with chapter navigation, text search, and built-in dictionary.

Example 2: Research Paper Collection

Input TEX file (papers.tex):

\documentclass{article}
\title{Selected Papers on Climate Science}
\author{Dr. Sarah Johnson}

\begin{document}
\maketitle

\section{Global Temperature Trends}
Analysis of temperature data from 1900
to present shows a clear warming trend.
The average global temperature has
increased by approximately 1.1°C.

\subsection{Methodology}
We analyzed data from over 10,000
weather stations worldwide...

\section{Ocean Acidification}
As CO$_2$ levels rise, ocean pH
decreases, threatening marine life.

Result: Portable research papers readable on Kindle during travel or commute, with Whispersync to resume reading on any device.

Example 3: Technical Manual

Input TEX file (manual.tex):

\section{API Reference}

\subsection{Authentication}
All API requests require a valid
API key in the header:

\begin{verbatim}
Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY
\end{verbatim}

\subsection{Endpoints}
\begin{description}
  \item[GET /users] List all users
  \item[POST /users] Create new user
  \item[PUT /users/:id] Update user
  \item[DELETE /users/:id] Delete user
\end{description}

Result: Developer documentation accessible on Kindle for offline reference, perfect for studying during travel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is MOBI format?

A: MOBI (Mobipocket) is an e-book format used by Amazon Kindle devices. Originally developed by Mobipocket SA and acquired by Amazon in 2005, it's based on the Open eBook standard with PalmDOC compression. While Amazon now prefers AZW3/KF8 for new content, MOBI remains compatible with all Kindle devices.

Q: Should I use MOBI or AZW3 for Kindle?

A: For maximum compatibility with older Kindle devices (pre-2012), use MOBI. For newer Kindles and enhanced features (better typography, embedded fonts), use AZW3. If you're unsure, MOBI is the safer choice as it works on all Kindle devices and apps.

Q: Will LaTeX equations display on Kindle?

A: Kindle MOBI format doesn't support native LaTeX math. Equations are converted to images that display on Kindle screens. For math-heavy documents, equations may appear smaller than ideal. Consider AZW3 for better rendering or accept that complex math is better suited to PDF format.

Q: Can I send MOBI files to my Kindle?

A: Yes! You can: (1) Email MOBI files to your Kindle's @kindle.com address, (2) Use Amazon's "Send to Kindle" desktop app, (3) Transfer via USB cable, or (4) Use the Kindle mobile app's document import feature. Note: Amazon recently changed email delivery to prefer EPUB, but MOBI still works.

Q: Does MOBI support tables of contents?

A: Yes, MOBI includes an NCX navigation table built from your LaTeX \chapter, \section, and \subsection commands. Readers can access this via the Kindle's "Go To" menu to jump between sections.

Q: Can I publish MOBI books on Amazon KDP?

A: Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing now prefers EPUB format for uploads (they convert internally). However, you can still upload MOBI files for personal distribution or use. For KDP publishing, consider using our TEX to EPUB converter instead.

Q: Will my images be included?

A: Yes, images from your LaTeX document are embedded in the MOBI file. They're optimized for Kindle screens (typically 6-7 inches, e-ink display). Very large or high-resolution images are scaled appropriately while maintaining readability.