Samsung and Barnes & Noble have announced that the next Nook tablet will be built by Samsung, and based on the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4. The tablet, with both Samsung and Nook branding, will combine the Tab 4 hardware, Android OS, and B&N's custom Nook software in addition to Samsung's traditional software suite. Available in the 7 inch form factor, the tablet will be sold alongside Nook eReaders in Barnes and Noble stores nationwide beginning in August.Although Barnes & Noble will continue manufacturing the Nook Glowlight eReader for the time being, the joint press release implies that they plan to get out of the hardware manufacturing business:
Working with Samsung on co-branded tablets will allow the Company to reduce its exposure to the substantial cost structure and other financial commitments that accompany ownership of the hardware production aspects of the NOOK tablet business. Going forward, the Company will be able to focus on its proven expertise in acquiring and delivering the best digital reading experience to grow NOOK content sales.No word from either company on whether the Nook software will be available for installation on existing tablets [Samsung tells me "Stay tuned for updates"], but it's almost a given that the developer community will make it available for rooted Galaxy Tabs, if not more.