The nook has support for several different file formats. The nook can view eBook formats such as ePUB and eReader. It can display various graphic formats such as JPG, GIF, PNG and BMP. It also can play MP3 files and display PDF files.
The nook enables its users to lend books to others free of charge for up to 14 days. Users of the nook can create a virtual bookmark and continue reading on other devices using Barnes & Noble's free eReader software. Users continue reading on a PC or Mac or other mobile devices such as a BlackBerry or Motorola smartphones, an iPhone or iPod touch.
Owners of the nook can enjoy free Wifi access while visiting any Barnes & Noble store. In fact, users can even browse ebooks while in the store before they buy.
Pre-orders of the nook currently are being taken on the Barnes & Noble Web site and in stores for the retail price of $259.
Learn more about the Barnes & Noble nook eBook reader at www.barnesandnoble.com/nook or www.nook.com. Download a copy of Barnes & Noble's free eReader software at www.barnesandnoble.com/ebooks/download-reader.asp.
According to the official launch press release, Barnes & Noble will offer a free eBook of Malcolm Gladwell's best-seller, "The Tipping Point," for the first 10,000 customers to pre-order nook.
While I'm on the subject of eBook readers, ECTACO has announced the release of its newest eBook reader — the jetBook-Lite. ECTACO is known for its budget line of eBook readers, held electronic translators and translating software.
The jetBook-Lite features a TFT screen and it is powered by four AA batteries. Other features include its limitless offering of file format compatibility. The jetBook-Lite supports the following formats: eReader DRM, ePub, Mobi, PRC, RTF, .txt, .pdf, .fb2, .jpg, .gif, .png and .bmp.
The jetBook-Lite are expected to be in stores before the end of the month with a retail price of $149. Learn more about the jetBook-Lite at http://jetbook.net/.
Peek update
Peek is now offering a lifetime service subscription for its users. Current Peek users can upgrade to the lifetime service plan for a one-time fee of $249. There is a prorated refund on the users' current plan. Just call Peek's Customer Care at (877) 677-PEEK to get the upgrade.
For those who don't already own a Peek, you can purchase a Peek Pronto with Lifetime service for $299 from Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Peek-Messaging-Lifetime-Service-Included/dp/B002MXXBKY/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1253892596&sr=8-9.
The lifetime plan is a good deal since one year of Peek service costs $229. The lifetime service stays with the Peek.
Learn more about the Peek e-mail devices at www.getpeek.com.
E-mail me at sheila@amnews.com; fax me at (859) 236-9566; or write me snail mail at The Advocate-Messenger, P.O. Box 149, Danville, KY 40423-0149.