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Critique of Barnes & Noble's Simple Touch E-reader: User Perspective

Overview of Barnes and Noble's Newest E-Reader: Introducing the Touchscreen Nook 2 - a revolutionary e-ink reader from the trusted bookstore giant. Catch a glimpse of this game-changer at Book Expo in New York, where an unexpected demonstration left us impressed.

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Examination of Barnes & Noble's fresh touchscreen e-ink reader, dubbed the Simple Touch Reader, or...
Examination of Barnes & Noble's fresh touchscreen e-ink reader, dubbed the Simple Touch Reader, or Nook 2. The device marks Barnes & Noble's first venture into the realm of touchscreen e-readers. Our first glimpse of this novel gizmo was at Book Expo in New York, where we received an unexpected tour.

Critique of Barnes & Noble's Simple Touch E-reader: User Perspective

Take a Peek at Barnes & Noble's Slick New E-Reader

Here's a fresh take on the Barnes & Noble Simple Touch Reader, or the Nook 2, a touchscreen device that grabs our attention and leaves your fingers tapping for more. Let's dive into its hardware and software, find out what it can do, and decide if it's worth the hype!

Hardware

Step into the new age of reading with the Nook 2's sleek and lightweight build. It boasts a responsive six-inch e-ink Pearl display similar to the popular screens on the Amazon Kindle, Kobo Touch, and Sony PRS-650. With 16 levels of greyscale and a resolution of 800x600 pixels, text pops off the page with sharp contrast. Enjoy books with a user-friendly size and easy-on-the-eyes visuals, perfect for hours of comfortable reading.

Underneath its trim frame lies an 800 MHz CPU, paired with 2 GB of internal storage. Enough space to stash all your favorite eBooks and images, with the option to expand using a MicroSD card, up to 32 GB. What's more, the Nook 2 curbs down on weight by eliminating the need for audio functionality and physical buttons, making it ultra-portable.

Navigate your Nook 2 with a homescreen "N" button, power on/off button, and a MicroUSB port for charging and data connection. The simple design makes it easy to slip into your bag or pocket for a take-anywhere reading experience.

Software

Beneath its surface, the Nook 2 runs on the Android 2.1 operating system, a massive upgrade from previous linear-based e-readers. Built for enhanced flexibility, the Android system lets advanced users access more options for customization, rooting, and adding alternative apps if they desire a diverse range of features and games.

One unexpected bonus is the web browser, although it's not officially advertised. Access websites via the Search button, type in the URL, and prepare yourself for a seamless online reading experience, even if it's not the smoothest for scrolling and loading entire webpage content.

Browse the Barnes & Noble store for a dreamy selection of books and media, all tailored to your preferences. A simple home screen makes browsing a breeze, sporting New York Times Bestsellers, Magazines, and Newspapers. With one or two taps, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of literary pleasure.

A Literary Adventure Awaits

Experience the Nook 2's reading capabilities and discover a world of literary magic. Reading books is a joy, with manual page turn buttons or easy side-swiping, fast page turn speeds, and the option to adjust font size, type, margins, and line-spacing to perfect your reading environment.

Make notes, highlights, and manage all your edits effortlessly with just a finger tap! Copy words, texts, or entire passages in an instant, all at your fingertips. The ultimate book club companion!

The Nook 2 also allows you to load in books bought from other stores via Adobe Digital Editions, so no need to stick to just one bookstore for all your literature needs.

Our Verdict

The Nook 2 Simple Touch Reader delivers an upgrade from previous Barnes & Noble e-ink readers, with improved page turn speeds and a streamlined user experience. While it lacks audio functions and a web browser with top performance, its touchscreen interface steals the show, making day-to-day tasks faster and more efficient.

It's a recommended device if you're in the market for a basic, affordable e-reader with a focus on the reading experience itself. While some features might be lacking compared to newer models, the Nook 2 remains a solid choice for comfortable, enjoyable reading sessions. Just remember to savor every word – the pleasure is in the reading!

8.5/10

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ix8uob0CTEE%3F

Michael Kozlowski

michael@our websiteMichael Kozlowski is the Editor-in-Chief at our platform, writing about audiobooks and e-readers for the past 15 years. With coverage in popular publications like the CBC, CNET, Engadget, Huffington Post, and the New York Times, Michael is your go-to guy for all things literary. He calls beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, his home.

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  1. The Nook 2 features a responsive touchscreen, similar to the Amazon Kindle, Kobo Touch, and Sony PRS-650, making it perfect for tapping and navigating through e-books.
  2. With the option for firmware updates, the Nook 2's Android 2.1 operating system allows for a range of customizations, giving users the ability to add alternative apps and diversify their gadget's features.
  3. Immerse yourself in a world of literary magic with the e-ink display on the Nook 2, an e-reader that's lightweight, sleek, and boasts a user-friendly size for comfortable reading sessions.

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