Kindle Unlimited vs Nook

2023. 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.


2019. DC Comics now available on Prime Reading and Kindle Unlimited



Amazon has recently reached an agreement with DC Comics, resulting in the availability of select titles on Comixology Unlimited, Kindle Unlimited, and Prime Reading. This development greatly facilitates the enjoyment of DC's Super Heroes by Amazon customers. Comixology Unlimited now offers thousands of chosen DC single issues, collections, and graphic novels, including exclusive fan-favorites from the DC Vertigo imprint, all for $5.99 per month with a 30-day free trial for new members. Kindle Unlimited members will also have access to a variety of single issues, collections, and graphic novels, while Prime Reading subscribers can enjoy a curated and rotating collection of highly regarded DC and DC Vertigo graphic novels at no extra cost. This expansion across the three services presents excellent entry points for newcomers to explore the world of DC and DC Vertigo.


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?"


2018. Amazon discounts Kindle Unlimited to compete against Scribd



As part of a campaign, Amazon is currently offering a special promotion where you can enjoy two months of access to Kindle Unlimited for only 99 cents. However, it is important to note that at the end of the promotional period, your subscription will automatically renew at the regular price of $9.99. Amazon has attributed this promotion to World Book Day, but it is evident that their underlying intention is to attract subscribers away from Scribd, a competing platform. Scribd offers an unlimited ebook subscription service for $8.99 per month, providing readers with access to both audiobooks and ebooks from major publishers. Unlike Amazon, which has faced limitations in securing support from major publishers over the years, with the exception of a few specific titles, Scribd's content boasts a wide range of offerings. Amazon's ebook library primarily relies on their Kindle Direct Publishing platform, resulting in a relatively lower overall quality. Thus, their approach to compete against Scribd revolves around enticing potential subscribers with significant discounts, capitalizing on those who may not be fully aware of the disparities between the two platforms.


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.


2015. Kindle Unlimited will pay authors get paid based on the number of pages consumer reads



Amazon has announced significant changes to its payment structure for authors participating in the Kindle Unlimited program, which operates similarly to Netflix, allowing readers to borrow an unlimited number of books for a monthly fee of $10. Starting from July 1, authors will receive payment based on the number of pages readers actually consume. Previously, Amazon compensated authors based on whether a reader reached the 10% mark in a book, regardless of its length. Following this calculation, a shared revenue pool was distributed among authors. However, some independent authors exploited the system by publishing numerous shorter books, thereby earning equal or even greater revenue than authors with fewer titles but longer page counts.


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.