B&N Throws a Nook Into the E-reader Market

As pundits and rumor mongers suspected, one of the largest booksellers in the nation has jumped with both feet into the e-reading space with its own e-reader device (which B&N calls an eBook reader), going head to head with Amazon's Kindle and a few step ahead of Plastic Logic's impending e-reader due to arrive early next year.

Barnes & Noble's $259 nook (yes, the product name isn't capitalized and maybe indicates a bit of e.e.cummings' inflection of humility), which can be pre-ordered, cements e-reading as the new technology-driven passion and will foster competition and advancements from both tenured players, such as Sony, and start-ups, such as Plastic Logic.

While sleek, and using AT&T's wireless network for downloads and bookshelf browsing, the most unique aspect is that nook lets readers share e-books with friends.

Yes, you read that right. Just like with print books, you can pass over a cherished favorite or a new read you enjoyed to friends who are using a nook, or one of many smartphone devices. Sharing is done using what B&N calls a "breakthrough" LendMe application, according to a press statement.

There are some caveats, though. Not every e-book can be shared, apparently, and the loan time is 14 days. You can share with iPhone and iPod users (makes sense, given that AT&T is the lone seller of the iPhone) and select BlackBerry and Motorola smartphones. You can even pass on an e-book to friends who have no snazzy gadgets so they can read books on a regular old PC or Mac screen.

As the blogsphere goes crazy, comparing the nook (which will be available in November) to Amazon's Kindle and whatever other e-readers crop up, the most important aspect is that e-readers will, sooner than later, become a steadfast technology that more literary-minded folks will be able to enjoy.

Competition drives up innovation and drives down prices, and in this gadget realm, I wouldn't be surprised to see an e-reader option under $200 by the time the new year arrives.

Photo courtesy of Barnes & Noble