(Sent originally from the wrong email address, please disregard the first and post this one) Thank you all for the feedback. I did receive a few more opinions, my decision is below these last responses: -------------------- Desperately trying to not fall into BetaMax/VHS trap.... The way to do that is to have an open system. Be ahead of the curve http://www.pcworld.com/article/194036/the_google_android_tablet_coming_soon.html<http://www.pcworld.com/article/194036/the_google_android_tablet_coming_soon.html> -------------------- I didn't see your original post. I have not used or even seen a Nook. My husband has a Kindle and loves it. However, I just got an iPad and that is much better. The dimmable backlit screen is easy on the eyes. In addition, there is an app which turns it into a virtual Kindle. I can read anything he can, plus the books in Apple's app store. Platform flexibility may help you avoid the VHS/beta issue. -------------------- I was looking at Nooks over the weekend. Although I don't own one, I did get some info the nook that might be useful. 1. If your rechargeable battery on the nook wears out (as often happens over the course of years of use with cell phone batteries, laptop batteries, etc) you can purchase a replacement battery for $29.99 to replace the worn out one. With the Kindle, this is not an option and you have to replace the entire unit. 2. If your unit malfunctions or breaks, you can take it back to a B&N store for service/repairs. With the Kindle, you have to do everything through the mail. I guess this can be more OR less convenient depending on your preference. 3. I didn't realize that the kindle wasn't backlit, and I don't know if the nook is or not, but personally, I wouldn't buy either one of them if it isn't backlit. -------------------

From a privacy stand point, I'm disappointed to learn that Amazon is collecting data on what people highlight on their Kindles. - http://is.gd/bTMG6<http://is.gd/bTMG6>

-------------------- MY DECISION: I have also spoken to others within the computer community and they are all for the Android operating system. The Nook is Android OS. Along with the supported files, lending from local libraries, expandable memory, replaceable battery and the recent upgrade to 1.3, (resolving some issues with refresh rates, etc.) I bought the Nook... besides, I had a discount coupon from Best Buy that I needed to use soon, so that lowered the price abit too. Oh, this isn't even for me... it's to be a combo Mother's Day / Birthday gift. I'll probably never even get a chance to use it. d.