Microsoft is reportedly interested in buying the Nook Media division

May 9, 2013 14:52 GMT  ·  By

You have most likely heard that tech giant Microsoft is now trying to take over the Nook Media business from Barnes & Noble, even though it’s not yet clear why.

While such an acquisition could help the company develop its own eReader, it could also bring Microsoft a significant advantage in the fight against the other rivals on the market, such as Apple and Google. Plus, it would fulfill Steve Ballmer’s desire of seeing Microsoft embracing the devices and services concept he talks about all the time.

And still, we wouldn’t be too surprised to see Microsoft keeping the Nook in its product family, obviously with a few personal touches.

Judging by the great work that Microsoft has managed to do with Windows 8, its reinvented operating system that’s enjoying such a terrific success these days, here’s how the company could improve the Nook.

First of all, owners shouldn’t be allowed to turn pages. If they have the skills to do it without touching the devices, that’s okay. Otherwise, practice makes you perfect. Try until you get the trick and manage to turn the page by simply starring at the device for hours. If you can’t do it, it’s your fault.

Second, the Nook should obviously come with support for Microsoft accounts. And it should definitely include all Microsoft’s helpful tools, such as SkyDrive, Messenger, Skype, Bing, Maps and all the other apps everybody is using on a daily basis. If you’re not using Internet Explorer already, you will.

The same Microsoft account would be used to activate a recently purchased book. Without an account, you won’t be allowed to read a single word.

The battery would be greatly improved and would last approximately 2 hours. Of course, the device would feature the latest innovations on the market, including a Vapor Magnesium case, plus a kickstand to make it easier for owners to stare at the Nook. Until they manage to turn the page, that is.

The new Nook logo will get worn off in just a few days. This way, you’ll know that you didn’t buy a replica.

Nook will eventually make the switch to Windows RT because Microsoft’s new operating system is already having millions of users around the world. And the lack of support for traditional desktop apps is pretty appreciated by book lovers.

Reading a book will be a piece of cake thanks to the perfect touch support that Microsoft has already introduced in Windows 8. Still, you won’t be allowed to read the last chapter of the book unless you pay for it. Otherwise, you’ll never know if the prince saved the princess.

Last but not least, Nook would require an always-on Internet connection. It doesn’t really matter if you’re in a plane or in a place with no Internet access, if you care enough about reading, you must find a near hotspot.

Every Nook will be delivered with the world's thinnest keyboard, the Surface Touch Cover. You won't need it, but this way, you'll pay Microsoft another $100 (€78).

And in the end, the Nook will be extremely cheap. The entry-level version will start at $899 (€685), while the Pro version (with a Start button) will cost $999 (€760).