Barnes & Noble Nook E-Reader is a wireless electronic book (eBook) reader featuring E Ink display and color touch screen navigation. It is also the first wireless eBook reader that allows reader to lend eBooks to others. The Nook is a 3G Wireless (via AT&T) and Wi-Fi enabled device for accessing and purchasing eBooks, newspapers and magazines.

When using the Nook with WiFi on Barnes & Noble stores, you can browse a complete eBooks for free. The Nook also features Reading Now technology for seamless content access between iPhone, Microsoft Windows and Mac computers. In other words, contents on the Nook are accessible from virtually anywhere.

The Barnes & Noble Nook Barnes & Noble Nook eReader was announced on October 20, 2009 with the suggested retail price of $259. The Nook would be available end of November 2009 from nook.com and Barnes & Noble stores. [1]

On April 23, 2010, Barnes & Noble release a software update version 1.3. There are some new features introduced in this update. One of them is called Read in Store (currently in Beta stage). Read In Store allows browsing complete eBooks (and in the future: periodicals) at no cost when the owner of Nook E-Reader happens to visit on fo the local Barnes & Noble store. There is a limitation of one hour per day when perusing the materials.

Other improvements include: enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity and availability of Web Browser (in Beta stage). Finally, android based applications included in this software update are Sudoku and Chess.[2]

The software update is available from the support page or by having the Nook connected to WiFi would push the update beginning April 23, 2010.[3]<ref>

On June 21, 2010, Barnes & Noble introduced the lower cost WiFi only Nook for $149. It also reduces the price of the original Nook 3G + WiFi to $199 (previous price was $259). <ref>[4]

The Barnes & Noble Nook E-Reader utilizes E Ink (with no glare or backlight) that displays like a regular printer page. Thus, it is great for long hours of reading. The text size is adjustable. At the bottom section of the Nook, there is a full color touch screen for content navigation and books selection. Browsing and searching for a book can be done by swiping your finger through the cover or typing the title using the virtual keyboard. Once the desired title is found, just tap on it to open the book.

The Reading Now technology makes it easy to continue from the last page read from virtually any devices including iPhone, Blackberry and computers using free eReader software.

For storage, there is a 2GB of internal memory capable of storing up to 1,500 books, newspapers, and magazines. Additional storage is available via an optional microSD card.

The nook can also be used as an MP3 player (holds approximately 26 hours of audio). The audio can be listened either via built-in mono speaker or headphone via the 3.5 mm stereo headphone jack.

eBooks in stored in the Nook can be lent to others for up to 14 days at the time. The borrower can read the book either from his Nook or any devices compatible with free Barnes & Noble eReader software. [1]

Announced on June 21, 2010, the WiFi only Nook has the ability to connect to AT7T WiFi hotspots and Barnes & Nobles stores for free. It is lighter than the 3G + WiFi version (11.6 oz instead of 12.1 oz). Finally, the WiFi only has white back panel (3G + WiFi has gray back panel). Otherwise, the WiFi only has the same features as the 3G + WiFi version. [1]

Engadget: In the end, the Nook is an intriguing product launched by a powerful force in the world of booksellers, but the initial offering feels long on promises and short on delivery. With the right software revisions, the Nook could be a tsunami, but as it stands right now, it's only a mild swell. [1]

AllThingsD: My recommendation on the Nook is to wait, even if you prefer its features to the Kindle’s. It’s not fully baked yet. [2]

ZDNet.: Like most devices released today, the Nook is not perfect and there are a couple areas that could be improved. However, IMHO it is the best ebook reader for my needs and you won’t be seeing me trying to make a profit on my Nook on ebay this holiday season. [3]