In a completely unexpected move, Barnes & Noble is opening up the Nook to Google's apps and services. Starting today, a software update will be released that will add the Google Play store, along with the typical suite of Google apps (Gmail, YouTube, Google Maps, etc.) to the Nook HD and Nook HD+.
This is AMAZING news! Adding Google Play is something consumers have been asking for since the device was released, and this move finally makes the Nook a more viable competitor to the Kindle Fire. I'll definitely be buying a Nook HD now.
I just wish they'd match Amazon's storage and pricing. Drop the 8 GB Nook (cause who uses 8 GB tablets anyways?), and have the 16 GB model at $200, and a 32 GB model at $230. (Talking about the 7" models)