[PatNY]

Here are a couple of things I've learned about the HD that might come in handy for other users:

1) You can install an android equivalent of Siri ... and it really works great! I installed the app called "Assistant" and it performs just as well as Siri does.

The Nook HD has a good microphone that also works well for voice memos and speech-to-text notes.

2) You can take a screenshot by pressing the "Home" hardware key on the bottom and the volume down button simultaneously. I've done it and it works well.

3) You can get rid of the big active shelf on the home page. Go to All Settings>Applications>Home and uncheck all the options for the various media to be included on the Active Shelf. Right after you do that, a stray catalog or magazine might appear, but just click on it and select "Do not show on Home" and it will never appear there again.

You really don't need the active shelf, since all the content that shows there is available through the Library button on the bottom of the home screen.

I've set up my home page so that there are ZERO apps or shelves showing on it -- just the wallpaper shows, and it's an image of my own choosing. This gives the home screen a clean, uncluttered look.

The one caveat about making the Active Shelf disappear is that it is still really there, only hidden. In other words, you can't place icons or widgets in that exact location and any swipes won't register on that small portion of the screen. I haven't found that to be a problem.

--Pat