Microsoft recently acquired a stake in Barnes and Noble’s Nook reading platform agreeing to invest 300 Million into a spinoff which will operate as a joint venture. Initially, I have to say I was quite confused as to why Microsoft would bother investing in this. I can’t seem to get the image of the Zune media player, the epic failure that it was, out of my head. Then I came across this article.
But this deal could provide more than a lifeline to users of the Nook, who feared they might have gotten an orphan given the huge success of Amazon.Com with its Kindle line. It could also provide Microsoft two things it really needs going forward: 1. A Digital Reader Platform 2. A Channel
His argument goes on to say that because B&N has a foothold in the college textbook and bookstore market this gives Microsoft the perfect “channel” to tap into. I don’t know about anyone else, but I absolute <strong>abhor</strong> digital textbooks. I tried out one or two on my Ipad and I simply could never concentrate. I can’t imagine anyone wanting to read full textbooks on a device as small as the Nook. It certainly doesn’t appeal to me. This reeks of bottom fishing by Microsoft throwing mud at the wall and hoping something sticks. <strong> What do you guys think? If your in college, would you buy textbooks to go on your Nook reader? Do you even have a Nook?</strong>
I strongly believe, with some experience, that digital textbooks is by far the worst investment anyone could ever make in their lives. Why? One, you have to look at a SCREEN, which clearly makes you blind within an hour of reading. Two, you could potentially be distracted by reading something off a device as it provides other features such as games and apps. And three, I like to highlight, take notes on the side, or whatever I could physically do on the textbook.
To provide an example of my experience. I am studying for the second CFA exam using the paper Schweser books, however, this week I was doing the CFAI mock exam and when I printed problems 1-60 I ran out of paper for the last problem set which along with the vignette is about 3 pages. Doing that set on the computer was the biggest pain in the ass in the world, as I had to go back and forth and couldn't look at all three pages at the same time (using laptop as I am vacationing in FL). So textbooks I will still prefer on paper form.
Also if I am studying on airplane, its much easier to pull out the book then open comp, or hurt your eyes by staring at Ipad/nook whatever for 4 hours and hoping the batt wont die.
But to defend the product, I absolutely love reading normal books on the Kindle as the screen is incredibly easy on the eyes, and I can slide it into a back pocket of my jeans. Not sure if this is the same as the Nook as I have never used it (is it like the Kindle or is it backlit like Ipad?)
Settles patent litigation with B&N; MSFT will now receive a royalty revenue stream
Channel doesn't mean solely digital textbooks. MSFT doesn't have the first party brick and mortar reach that Apple does, for instance, as a software player like MSFT relies on its channel partners. You'll now likely see MSFT software, Windows powered laptops, phones, and tablets on sale at these college Barnes & Noble stores next to their Nook reader brethren. The Nook will likely soon run the ARM version Windows as well.
Gives Microsoft a first party ebook content ecosystem for their Windows 8 tablets. You'd want to ensure security of supply in case Amazon pulls 3rd party support. Apple is already first party only.
I'm sorry guys, but a vast majority of textbooks are going to be moving to digital in the coming years. Paper won't disappear, but it will be relegated. You'll recall when Apple rolled out its new iPad textbook initiative earlier this year, people completely fawned over it. Once the content problem gets solved there is going to be a big push in this area. As for highlighting or note writing, you'll have have stylus options, etc. for your tablet
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