Barnes & Noble has revealed a new Nook device, teaming with Samsung to take a shot at its struggling e-reader community. The new revamped Nook blends the bookseller's digital content with the electronic company's tablet technology.
Called the Galaxy Tab 4 Nook, it is still meant to concentrate on those who like to read on mobile devices, and it will compete with Amazon's low-priced Kindle Fire HDX. It will also offer some Samsung's original services to complement the tech-savvy consumers as well.
"We've taken our bestselling Samsung Galaxy tablet and made it the best tablet available for reading and entertainment," said Tim Baxter, president of Samsung Electronics America.
The new device, powered by Google Android operating system, is the same as a Galaxy Tab 4 but with Nook software and apps installed.
It comes with a front- and rear-facing camera for taking photos and video chatting and will sport a 7-inch screen. The Tab 4 Nook will sell for $200 - this is cheaper than the $230 price of the 7-inch Kindle Fire HDX.
Barnes & Noble will also offer $200 worth of free Nook content, including three e-books, episodes of exclusive TV shows, and a 14-day trial subscription to a major magazine.
Amazon dominates the market for electronic reading, with its kindle apps reaching a variety of devices. The tech giant sells about 70-80 percent of all e-books. Trouble with publishers and authors with are losing trust for the company gives opposition like Apple, Google and Samsung the right opportunity to sway Amazon customers to their sides.
Barnes & Noble made hints last year that it would spin off its money-losing Nook media division. Although the devices started to lose popularity, they were simple to use, cheap, light and generally loved by avid readers.
Merging with Samsung may be the spark needed to revive the dying device.
