14 DAY TRIAL // While other players are trying to push their new e-readers to market, Barnes and Noble is updating its own offering, the latest firmware being one that brings several enhancements and new features to the electronic.
When it first came out, the Nook had Barnes and Noble in something of an impasse because demand was much higher than what the bookstore chain could cope with.
This was especially noteworthy during the holiday season of 2009, when the outfit had to send Nook gift certificates to those that were supposed to get e-readers for Christmas.
Eventually, B&N managed to reach a balance between supply and demand, after which it could more closely look at what it could improve.
This led to firmware updates, the latest of which was made available just a short time ago.
It is the largest update to date and enhances certain features while adding several others, particularly those that Nook customers most requested.
As far as improvements go, end-users will experience faster page turns (up to 50%), better battery life and improved search functionality (side-loaded content, My Documents will be included in the results).
As for what the update brings new, there are a few that stand out over the rest.
For one, password protection is now available for purchases made on a Nook device, meaning that Nook won't authorize any content download without the correct code.
The Nook itself can also demand a password upon being powered on or awakening from sleep mode.
Furthermore, customers will be able to customize folders and group content for the My B&N Library, while the My Shelves feature lets them organize the B&N Libraries according to a subject or theme.
Finally, Nook for Android v2.4 lets the NOOKbook Store be easily browsed with in-app shopping, in addition to providing the ability to take notes and make highlights in the NOOKbooks, highlights which will sync with other Nook apps and devices.