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June 21 – 27, 2010 Edition BN Introduces Nook Wi-Fi, Lowers 3G Price
NEW YORK, NY/AUTHORLINK NEWS/June 22, 2010– Barnes & Noble has launched a new version of its Nook e-book reader, reduced prices on existing models, and announced a software update that introduces new book reading features as well as free access to AT&Ts Wi-Fi hotspots.
In contrast to existing models, the new Nook Wi-Fi has no 3G connectivity, and relies on Wi-Fi networks to access the Internet and download content. The reduced connectivity has enabled the company to price the new device at $149$50 less than its more capable counterpart, which now sell for $199, down from $259.
Barnes & Nobles new price for NOOK 3G marks the markets first under-$200 dedicated full-featured eBook reader that offers both free 3G wireless and Wi-Fi connectivity.
NOOK Wi-Fi eBook Reader marries innovative technology and sleek minimalist design with Wi-Fi connectivity. This latest addition to the NOOK family gives customers the opportunity to take advantage of the proliferation of both in-home and public Wi-Fi hotspots, where they can browse the Web and shop the Barnes & Noble eBookstore of more than one million eBooks, periodicals and other digital content. With its latest software update for all NOOK devices (now available atwww.nook.com/update), Barnes & Noble is offering all NOOK customers complimentary access to AT&T’s entire nationwide Wi-Fi network, including Barnes & Noble bookstores which have previously been available to NOOK customers.
As part of the NOOK eBook Reader family, NOOK Wi-Fi features Barnes & Nobles LendMe technology, enabling customers to share eBooks with friends for up to 14 days. NOOK Wi-Fi also offers the same in-store features like Read In Store to browse complete eBooks in Barnes & Noble stores at no cost, and More In Store, offering free, exclusive content and special promotions.
People who love to read will find tremendous value with the new NOOK Wi-Fi, the most full-featured, low-cost eReading device on the market, and our bestselling NOOK 3G now at an even lower price, said Tony Astarita, Vice President, Digital Products, Barnes & Noble.com. This expanded choice offers best-in-class, best-priced dedicated eBook Readers featuring eBook sharing, access to our vast eBookstore, great free and exclusive content and much more. And with expansion of fast and free Wi-Fi access beyond Barnes & Noble stores to thousands of AT&T Wi-Fi Hot Spots, were bringing additional freedom and flexibility to all NOOK 3G and NOOK Wi-Fi customers.
NOOK Wi-Fi follows NOOK 3Gs stylish design and dimensions and is lightweight (just 11.6 ounces), making it easy to carry in a handbag, briefcase, backpack or suit jacket pocket, just like NOOK 3G. NOOK Wi-Fi also comes with a removable white back cover NOOKs is grey and you can personalize your device from a selection of four additional great back cover colors.
All NOOK 3G and NOOK Wi-Fi customers can also use the included USB cable to connect their device to a PC or Mac to transfer their personal files in ePub, PDF and PDB formats to their NOOK. Based on Barnes & Nobles open platform and Adobe technology partnership, customers can transfer and read personal files that utilize Adobes latest digital rights management or are rights-free. Barnes & Nobles use of Adobe technology and ePub format also allows customers to read their digital content across a growing universe of devices.
NOOK Wi-Fi is now available for purchase online at www.nook.com for $149 and will begin shipping this week. NOOK Wi-Fi can also be ordered at www.bestbuy.com. Barnes & Noble expects NOOK Wi-Fi will be in-stock in select Barnes & Noble and Best Buy stores for immediate purchase later this month and rolling out to all stores later this summer.
