Nook delayed for retail, in "very limited" numbers
updated 09:20 am EST, Mon November 30, 2009
Barnes and Noble expects Nook to be late
Barnes & Noble today warned that the Nook's retail launch has been delayed by a week to December 7th. Its launch is being set back as the company is prioritizing those who pre-ordered the e-book reader. Only a "very limited" number of the devices should show up at the physical bookstores next week, the company said.
It's been speculated that the bookseller has encountered a problem similar to Amazon's past troubles with the Kindle, where it sold out quickly simply because its initial production run was too small to satisfy demand. However, it has warned that its pre-orders are booked until January and suggest at least strong short-term popularity.
The Nook has drawn attention not just because of its secondary, color touchscreen and its Wi-Fi but also its use of Android at its root. It's the first known instance of an e-book reader carrying a more advanced operating system. Barnes & Noble has said the device could theoretically allow third-party apps, though many native Android apps won't work.
Amazon has also claimed breakthrough Kindle sales and, combined with Nook sales, points to a surge in the e-reader category ahead of possible entrants like an Apple tablet.
