Mobile Tweaks

Android eReader updates: Alex, eDGE, Nook

Posted on February 27, 2010 by Mobile Tweaks

Are you in the market for an Android-powered eReader? The Nook has been available since last year and two new devices are about to be launched. I gave into the hype and actually pre-ordered a Nook, which I have been very happy with (see unboxing and initial thoughts). We also got to play with the upcoming Alex and eDGe at during CES and I chose the Alex as the Best eReader of CES.

A few notes about upcoming Android eReaders:

Spring Design’s Alex pushed to first week of March: The Alex was supposed to launch February 22nd, but it got pushed back to March. Pricing has been lowered from $399 to $359, but you cannot order the device yet. For those who missed it, the Alex will include an e-bookstore powered by Borders.
Entourage eDGe early preorders shipping now; everyone else can wait until March: A new report from Entourage says that anyone who pre-ordered the eDGe before January 12th will have their unit shipped this week. The eDGe offers a unique dual-book design, but it sells for $499 (which puts it in the range of the iPad).
B&N: Nook “Single Best-Selling Product”: No surprise here. Barnes & Noble was overwhelmed with the demand for the Nook and was unable to keep up with orders during the holiday season. Production has finally ramped up and the Nook is in stock again. At only $259, the Nook is the most affordable Android-powered eReader. Barnes & Noble is also working on a native Android application.

None of these devices have support for the official Android Market, but the Alex and eDGE can run standard Android applications. The Nook can also load Android apps, but it requires a little bit of hacking.

If you are buying a device solely to read books I would suggest the Nook, but keep an eye on the Alex when it is finally released next month.