MobileRead Forums - View Single Post - What ereaders allow user to add software?

Runs4Brains · 02-09-2011, 05:55 PM

I think the only devices that would allow you to freely install software/apps would not be considered dedicated eReader devices. They would be considered mobile pc's like the iPhone/Touch, Windows Mobile/Win CE, and dedicated Android tablets like the Galaxy Tab.

As for eReaders, you won't get this functionality without messing with the firmware. There are currently many cheap Chinese tablets/ereaders running various flavors of Android. Many can be rooted with varying levels of difficulty. But 99% of these things are junk from a hardware standpoint and aren't worth your time or money. Pretty much the only one worth it's salt (at a reasonable price) is the B&N NookColor which is essentially a well spec-ed Android tablet masquerading as an e-reader. Rooting it is about a 4 minute process and requires basically zero technical skills.

I know B&N WILL be adding greater app support to their stock NookColor, but even that will be limited. They only make money if you buy books through THEM. So giving you further options to read books not sold through them is not desirable. Like I'm sure you'll NEVER see the Kobo or Kindle Android apps in the B&N Android Market place (when/if it ever launches)

02-09-2011, 05:55 PM	#4
Runs4Brains Member Posts: 23 Karma: 324 Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: Chicago, IL Device: Aluratek Libre Pro	I think the only devices that would allow you to freely install software/apps would not be considered dedicated eReader devices. They would be considered mobile pc's like the iPhone/Touch, Windows Mobile/Win CE, and dedicated Android tablets like the Galaxy Tab. As for eReaders, you won't get this functionality without messing with the firmware. There are currently many cheap Chinese tablets/ereaders running various flavors of Android. Many can be rooted with varying levels of difficulty. But 99% of these things are junk from a hardware standpoint and aren't worth your time or money. Pretty much the only one worth it's salt (at a reasonable price) is the B&N NookColor which is essentially a well spec-ed Android tablet masquerading as an e-reader. Rooting it is about a 4 minute process and requires basically zero technical skills. I know B&N WILL be adding greater app support to their stock NookColor, but even that will be limited. They only make money if you buy books through THEM. So giving you further options to read books not sold through them is not desirable. Like I'm sure you'll NEVER see the Kobo or Kindle Android apps in the B&N Android Market place (when/if it ever launches) Last edited by Runs4Brains; 02-09-2011 at 06:03 PM.