Nook alternatives

Here are the latest news about Nook:

04.12.23. NOOK Reading App for Windows is discontinued



Barnes and Noble has officially discontinued the NOOK reading app for the Microsoft Windows Store, with the app's listing removed and new downloads no longer permitted. While existing users can still utilize the app for the time being, the company has not clarified whether they will ultimately terminate the service altogether. Encouraging a more expansive reading experience, Barnes and Noble suggests users explore their suite of NOOK Reading Apps available for Android and iOS devices, along with NOOK for Web, facilitating online reading. This decision to discontinue services extends beyond the Windows app, as Barnes and Noble previously announced the impending closure of all services for the Nook Simple Touch, Nook Simple Touch with Glowlight, and the Nook Glowlight a month ago. Starting in April of the following year, customers will lose access to the Nook Store and won't be able to sync additional digital content.


2023. Nook iOS app adds Trends to track reading progress



Barnes and Noble's latest enhancement to their Nook reading app for iPhones and iPads involves a novel aspect. They are infusing an element of gamification into the act of reading ebooks through the introduction of an innovative feature labeled as "Trends." Within this fresh section named Trends, users can effectively monitor their monthly reading and listening advancements. The section encompasses a dynamic wheel dedicated to tracking the consecutive days during which individuals engage with digital content or partake in audiobooks. The bookselling company has expressed its intention to introduce forthcoming attributes and incentives tied to the Trends concept. Parallels can be drawn between Barnes and Noble's Trends and the Kindle system for iOS, both of which monitor the uninterrupted streaks of digital reading days. The Kindle's reading progress has spawned a substantial community, with enthusiasts readily sharing their achievements on social media platforms—instances of individuals boasting multi-year streaks of daily reading are not uncommon. Barnes and Noble aspires to leverage this notion of progress in reading. An added personal wish is for this feature to extend beyond the Nook app and encompass their ebook readers as well.


2021. Nook released a new cheap Tablet for e-Reading



Barnes and Noble, in collaboration with Lenovo, has unveiled the new Nook Tablet. This latest model is positioned as an affordable option, priced at $129, similar to its predecessor. However, it features a lower resolution screen with a resolution of 1280 x 800. On the positive side, the new Nook Tablet operates on Android 10 and offers Google Play support for installing Android applications. It boasts an octa-core CPU, a USB-C port, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, an FM radio, 32GB of internal storage, and a microSD card slot. Additionally, it incorporates an 8MP rear camera, a 5MP front camera, and weighs a relatively light 420 grams compared to other 10-inch tablets.


2020. Barnes and Noble improved author sorting in Nooks



Barnes and Noble has recently released a firmware update, version 52.0.78, for several of their Nook e-readers. This software update brings along a range of bug fixes and enhancements to improve the user experience. Notably, one significant enhancement is that author names will now consistently appear as their first and last names. This feature proves particularly useful for readers who enjoy books by the same author, as it allows for easier sorting within the library. Additionally, a progress bar has been added to the library interface, providing readers with a visual indication of their progress in various ebooks. While there are likely other improvements included in the update, Barnes and Noble no longer publishes detailed changelogs for these firmware releases.


2019. Barnes and Noble will continue to support the Nook e-Reader



James Daunt, the newly appointed CEO of Barnes and Noble, has affirmed the company's commitment to supporting the Nook e-Reader. While emphasizing his primary focus on enhancing B&N's physical stores, Daunt expressed his belief that by improving the stores, all other aspects of the business will thrive. However, customers can still anticipate the release of new Nook models on a yearly or biennial basis in the foreseeable future.


2018. Barnes and Noble releases Nook Tablet 7 2018 Edition



Barnes and Noble has introduced the second generation of their NOOK 7 tablet, offering expanded storage to accommodate your virtual library and an enhanced reading experience, just in time for holiday shopping. The device is now available both in stores and online, priced at $49.99. The NOOK 7 boasts double the storage capacity compared to its predecessor, with 16GB of internal storage (expandable up to 128GB). It also features a front and rear-facing camera, Bluetooth capability, a headphone jack, a speaker, and a microphone. This new NOOK tablet is a fully equipped device, complete with a captivating LCD display, access to the Google Play Store, a soft-touch finish, and upgraded NOOK software, ensuring an improved experience for reading and browsing.


2018. Barnes & Noble released new Nook tablet



Barnes & Noble has unveiled their latest tablet, the Nook 10.1, priced at $130. While the device features a 10.1-inch screen with a moderate 224 ppi, there isn't much else noteworthy about this budget Android tablet, which offers 32GB of storage, two cameras, and a headphone jack—a feature that holds significance in 2018. However, its soft-touch feel and lightweight design make it an ideal holiday gift for avid readers who seek to indulge in their favorite books for hours. Barnes & Noble is positioning it as a "game changer," marking their first Nook release since 2016 when they introduced a highly affordable $50 model, back when the bookseller was a ubiquitous presence.


2018. Barnes and Noble launched book social discovery app



Barnes and Noble has recently introduced a new Android app called Browsery, which serves as a social community for book enthusiasts to engage in discussions about various literary works. Drawing inspiration from the fundamental aspects of the Barnes & Noble store experience, namely browsing, community, and conversation, Browsery facilitates the process of discovering your next beloved book by harnessing the knowledge and passion of fellow readers. Within this platform, you'll find intriguing inquiries such as "What biography would you recommend delving into after watching The Crown?", "Which stories have moved you to tears?", and "What's your all-time favorite book about books?"


2017. Nook for Android gets Search by Voice



Barnes and Noble has released an updated version of their Nook app for Android, incorporating various exciting additions. Among the notable improvements is the introduction of voice search, enabling users to effortlessly search for e-books within their e-reader and the store. Simply tap the microphone icon in the search bar and verbally communicate your reading preferences to NOOK. Furthermore, the latest version allows you to generate personalized Quote Cards using your preferred highlights. Customize the background and effortlessly share these cards through social media platforms, email, or text messages.


2016. Barnes and Noble launched a new website



Barnes and Noble has recently undergone a significant overhaul of their website, resulting in a visually appealing and reader-centric design. The revamped site prioritizes books, shifting the focus away from unrelated items like pillows, scented candles, and toys. The main page is now dedicated to showcasing an impressive array of great books, including the B&N Top 100 Books and book reviews from their blog. Engaging image carousels feature new and notable Nook books, as well as personalized recommendations based on users' past purchases. During a recent shareholders conference, the newly appointed CEO of Barnes and Noble, Ron Boire, emphasized the company's strong commitment to the modern web, with plans to ensure the website is fully responsive and optimized for mobile phones and tablets.


2016. Barnes and Noble is closing the Nook App and Video Store



In an attempt to address the challenges faced by its struggling Nook division, Barnes and Noble has decided to implement cost-cutting measures. As part of these measures, the company plans to shut down the Nook App Store, Nook Video Store, and the UK Nook e-book store starting from March. This closure will impact all Nook tablets ever produced, including Nook Color, Nook Tablet, Nook HD, Nook HD+, and Samsung for Nook branded devices. Barnes and Noble is actively encouraging users to transition to platforms like Google Play or third-party app stores. The company believes that this move will enable them to refocus their efforts on their core digital content business, specifically Books and Newsstand, while streamlining their operations.


2015. Barnes & Noble released Nook Audiobooks app



Barnes and Noble is placing a strong emphasis on audiobooks with the launch of their Nook Audiobooks App for iPhone and iPad, accompanied by a dedicated website, NOOKAudiobooks.com. Designed to work in tandem with the apps, the website offers customers convenient online access to a vast selection of over 60,000 audiobooks, ensuring they can enjoy their listening experience from any location. The app provides customers with the option to purchase audiobooks directly through the app, eliminating the need for a subscription. Additionally, the app enables users to explore free samples of any audiobook, allowing them to preview the content before making a purchase. Barnes and Noble's commitment to the world of audiobooks is evident through these new offerings, providing enhanced accessibility and choice for audiobook enthusiasts.


2015. Barnes & Noble and Samsung unveiled new tablet Galaxy Tab S2 NOOK



The newly released Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 NOOK presents an 8-inch tablet that seamlessly combines Samsung's sleek design and multitasking capabilities with NOOK's unmatched reading and entertainment experience. Boasting remarkable slimness and lightweight design, this device offers ultra-fast performance, powered by an octa-core processor, enabling users to effortlessly switch between books, movies, apps, and web browsing. Priced at $399.99, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 NOOK provides access to Barnes & Noble's vast collection of digital content, including over 4 million books encompassing bestsellers, new releases, classics, and enhanced titles featuring special content.


2015. Barnes & Noble closes international Nook Store



The Digital Reader recently came across an intriguing email sent to Nook users worldwide, informing them about significant changes regarding the Nook app for Windows. Specifically, international Nook users residing outside the United States or the United Kingdom were notified that their content would be removed from Windows machines and they would receive refunds for their purchases. Furthermore, they would no longer have the ability to access Nook books on their Windows devices. This decision is directly linked to B&N's acquisition of Microsoft's investment in the Nook store in December, indicating a restructuring of the Nook business that involves scaling back partnerships in order to streamline operations amidst a declining market. The future direction of the Nook remains uncertain, but the current actions suggest a deliberate effort to adapt to the changing landscape.


2014. Barnes & Noble and Microsoft end their Nook partnership



Barnes & Noble has officially announced the termination of its agreement with Microsoft concerning the Nook business. This development coincides with the news of a significant decline in Nook device sales, which have dropped by 60% this year. The collaboration between the two companies began two years ago when Microsoft made an initial investment of at least $300 million to establish Nook Media. The partnership emerged as a response to B&N's refusal to pay Microsoft patent royalties for its Android-based e-readers. Unfortunately, the collaboration failed to yield substantial results. During the summer, B&N joined forces with Samsung to produce a Nook-branded tablet, yet even this partnership could not revive the struggling e-reader pioneer.


2014. Nook launches Audiobook app for Android



To enhance its offerings, Nook has launched an audiobook app specifically designed for Android users. As an added bonus, first-time downloads of the app will include two free audiobook titles for a limited time. The new NOOK Audiobooks App provides a seamless shopping experience, making it easy for users to explore and purchase high-quality audiobooks for both adults and children at affordable prices. Users can also enjoy free samples of a wide selection of titles to help them make informed choices. Notably, Scribd recently integrated audiobooks into its subscription ebook platform, aiming to rival Amazon's Audible. By encouraging ebook readers to engage with more audiobooks, Scribd recognizes the potential synergy between these two markets.


2014. The new Nook is almost all Samsung Galaxy Tab



Barnes & Noble has introduced the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 Nook, which they claim to be the "first ever full-featured Android tablet designed for reading." This 7-inch tablet, primarily manufactured by Samsung, comes with the exclusive "Barnes & Noble Advantage" app, enabling users to easily download books and access technical support. It is important to note that this tablet is essentially a Samsung device with some Barnes & Noble branding, indicating a shift away from dedicated Nook hardware. The Galaxy Tab 4 Nook is now available for purchase both in stores and online, priced at $179 after a $20 rebate. Interestingly, this matches the price offered by other retailers like Amazon.


2014. Barnes & Noble will dump its Nook business



Barnes & Noble has revealed its plans to divide its retail and NOOK businesses into two separate publicly traded companies, with the separation expected to be finalized by the first quarter of the upcoming calendar year. This decision arrives alongside the fourth quarter 2014 financial results of B&N, where the Nook division continued to exert a negative impact on the overall company performance. Following the split, the Nook business will no longer benefit from the support of Barnes & Noble, placing it in a sink or swim scenario. Considering the brand's track record, it is likely that the Nook will face challenges in staying afloat for an extended period. Therefore, it remains uncertain, but there is a possibility that Microsoft might swiftly acquire the Nook.


2014. Samsung to make next Nook Tablet based on Galaxy Tab



In an effort to revitalize its position in the ebook market, Barnes & Noble has formed a partnership with Samsung. The collaboration aims to enhance digital content sales by introducing co-branded Galaxy Tab 4 Nook tablets, set to be available in early August. These devices will seamlessly integrate Samsung's popular Galaxy Tab 4 hardware with customized NOOK software, offering customers robust and feature-rich tablets specifically tailored for reading. Users will enjoy convenient access to Barnes & Noble's extensive digital collection, which encompasses over three million books, leading magazines, and newspapers. This strategic alliance between Barnes & Noble and Samsung seeks to provide customers with an enhanced reading experience and broaden their access to diverse digital content.


2013. Barnes & Noble slashes Nook and book prices for Black Friday



Barnes & Noble is slashing prices on several Nook devices during the Black Friday weekend. The Nook Simple Touch is now available at its lowest price ever, reduced to just $39 from its original price of $79. Furthermore, Barnes & Noble is offering a minimum of 50 percent off on hundreds of best-selling Nook books. As part of the Black Friday promotion, several popular Nook books, including "Plum Lucky" by Janet Evanovich, "The Cider House Rules" by John Irving, and "Crewel" by Gennifer Albin, will be discounted to $2.99. Additionally, if you're in need of accessories for your Nook, Barnes & Noble has you covered. They are offering a $10 Industriell cover for Simple Touch and Simple Touch GlowLight devices, along with a 25 percent discount on other Nook HD accessories until December 1st.


2013. Nook released new reading app for Windows 8



Barnes & Noble has recently enhanced its NOOK App for Windows 8 to fully optimize it for the latest version of Windows, Windows 8.1. This updated version offers a more streamlined user interface, ensuring faster performance, and introduces new features. Among these features are enhanced support for snap view and portrait ereader orientation, the capability to import files from SkyDrive, improved search functionality, enhanced library organization, and enhanced in-app support for customers. With this update, users now have the convenience of importing ePub and PDF files from "My PC" and SkyDrive, which will appear in the NOOK library, and the app will save the current reading page for imported items. Furthermore, the library organization has been improved with content grouping, and users can easily access the integrated library search function.


2013. Barnes & Noble drops Nook tablets buy keeps manufacturing e-ink readers



According to Barnes & Noble's recent earnings report, the company has announced its decision to cease in-house manufacturing of Nook tablets. Instead, Barnes & Noble plans to adopt a "partnership model for manufacturing" these tablets, while still maintaining the internal development of e-ink readers. In a statement, CEO William Lynch emphasized the company's commitment to innovation in the black-and-white e-reader category. He further noted that a significant portion of content sales originates from non-tablet devices and that e-readers have played a crucial role as the primary means of customer acquisition for content.


2013. Barnes & Noble kills Nook desktop apps



Today, Apple has introduced iBooks for Mac, expanding its range of platforms for digital reading. In contrast, Barnes & Noble has made the decision to discontinue support for the Mac and PC (pre-Windows 8) versions of the Nook standalone reader software. Instead, they now direct users to utilize the web-based version of the application. Although the web-based version serves as a substitute, it is not a perfect replacement due to a significant number of Nook e-books being unsupported. Not all titles available in the store are compatible with the web-based application. This development indicates that Barnes & Noble's efforts in the e-book realm currently lag behind Amazon's in terms of cross-platform accessibility. However, it appears that Barnes & Noble may be redirecting its focus towards a different objective - establishing a presence in the low-cost tablet market with Nook hardware. They have recently introduced features that integrate Play Store functionality into the Nook HD line while also unlocking essential missing features, such as a browser for the Simple Touch, thereby transforming them into more than just e-readers.


2013. Barnes & Noble integrates Google Play into Nook tablets



Barnes & Noble has made an unexpected decision to incorporate the Google Play marketplace, along with various Google services such as Google+, Gmail, YouTube, and Maps, into its Nook HD and HD+ tablets. Although Nook tablets are already based on the Android platform, this move may appear peculiar given the company's strategic partnership with Microsoft. However, according to Jim Hilt, Barnes & Noble's VP of ebooks, the intention is to offer Nook tablet users a more extensive media ecosystem, and the company remains unconcerned about competition from Google Books. Hilt expressed confidence in the Nook shopping experience, believing that users will ultimately choose it when utilizing Nook devices.


2012. Nook for Windows 8 is here. But it's dissapointing



Finally, after much anticipation, Barnes & Noble and Microsoft have released the highly awaited Nook e-reader app for Windows 8 (Metro), which is now readily available in the Windows Store here. Interestingly, despite the potential for pre-installation on Windows 8 devices, the app is not prominently featured on the Windows Store front page, the eBooks section front page, or the list of recommended apps. Instead, it currently holds the #4 position in the New Releases section. In contrast, its main competitor, Kindle, is listed as the second recommended app in the eBooks section. Early reviews, mostly from existing Nook users, indicate that the app has some bugs and lacks certain useful features found in Nook tablets and other Nook apps. However, considering that this is the initial release, it is important to exercise patience and await future updates and improvements.


2012. Windows 8 launch: with Kindle, and without Nook



Today, Windows 8 has officially launched worldwide, accompanied by the introduction of the Windows Store, which serves as the primary hub for Windows 8 apps (the exclusive source for Windows RT tablets). Surprisingly, the Nook app is currently unavailable both as a built-in feature in Windows and within the Windows Store. It's worth mentioning that Microsoft established a partnership with Barnes & Noble and jointly formed a company to oversee the Nook ecosystem. They had previously promised to develop the Nook app for Windows 8 prior to its launch, but unfortunately, they were unable to fulfill that commitment. In contrast, their main competitor, Amazon, already offers the Kindle app in the Windows Store. Similar to Kindle apps on other platforms, this app seamlessly synchronizes your progress, bookmarks, notes, and highlights across all your devices. Consequently, you can commence reading a book on your Kindle e-reader and seamlessly transition to a Windows 8 computer or tablet to continue where you left off.


2012. Microsoft enters the ebook market via Nook Media



In the past, Microsoft filed a lawsuit against Barnes & Noble, alleging infringement on five Microsoft patents due to the use of the Android OS in the Nook e-reader. However, instead of seeking royalties, Microsoft made a strategic decision to partner with Barnes & Noble and enter the ebook market. This collaboration has culminated in the official formation of a joint venture known as Nook Media. Consequently, Nook Media now operates the Nook brand, taking over from Barnes & Noble. Microsoft has made a substantial investment of $300 million in this joint venture, securing a 17.6% ownership stake. Furthermore, Microsoft will develop the Nook app specifically for Windows 8 and seamlessly integrate it with Office and Bing. As a result, the Nook app will not only serve as a platform for social and internet-powered reading but will also enable users to write and publish books using familiar tools such as Word. The anticipated release date for the Nook app for Windows 8 is October 26, coinciding with the launch of Windows 8 itself.