B&N 'Nook' E-Reader is in Demand
Monday, 9 November 2009
In the ever-expanding market of e-readers, there seems to be a new leader. The ‘Nook’, from Barnes and Noble, is enjoying increasing buzz and popularity. Since its release isn’t scheduled until the end of November, I thought it would be a good time to post some stats and features of the product. It’ll be interesting to see how this adds up in the current market.
The main difference between the Nook and competition, let’s say the Kindle, is the ability to download books wirelessly, and “lend” books to other users. With a competitive price point, and hundreds of stores nationwide, (and a fun name) the Nook will be a strong competitor .
Users will be able to connect either to wireless hotspots, or use AT&T’s 3G network to purchase and download their newest reading material. Users will also be able to loan a text to one of their friends for up to 14 days for no charge. That may or may not be exploited.
All the other features are typical; a 6-inch screen, 2gb hard drive, weighing 11.2 ounces.
I’m not going to buy one. I’m not going to buy any e-reader. I’m stuck in my ways. I don’t see the value of shelling out hundreds of dollars for something that amounts to little more than a paperweight. Sure, you have easier access to millions of titles, but they still cost a fair amount. The entry cost for having the ability to download those titles is arguably unjustified.
You pay $9.99 for a book, which is cheap, but the book isn’t really yours. It’s pixels. I guess it’s virtually the same as paper, except delicate and intangible. So far, the $259.99 + $9.99/book price tag doesn’t have me too excited.
God Save the Books,
C. Harder
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No. 1 — December 11th, 2009 at 1:02 pm
I agree…plus I love the smell of a new book or even used books….books in general….I like spending hours in b&n just going through different books and this nook kind of takes the fun out of that….plus as soon as you buy one, a better one comes out…..ill stick to actual books :}