A group of clever Barnes & Noble Nook e-book reader enthusiasts have found a way to root the popular device, allowing it to be used as a Google Android device that can access the Internet for free.
If rooted properly, the Nook transforms from a traditional e-reader, and then becomes a tablet PC. The group responsible for rooting it have added an emulator, and now are testing a Web browser.
Similar to unlocking a mobile phone, rooting the Nook is a violation of the product's terms and conditions, which also means the manufacturer warranty also flies out the window.
The NookDev team published the hardware used in the Nook -- something else B&N likely won't appreciate -- as the e-reader has the necessary power to browse the Internet and download books for free. The Nook has a Samsung S3C6410 processor, 2GB SanDisk microSD card, Synaptics TM1369 Touchscreen controller, and the Sierra Wireless MC8777V wireless modem.
Although the modders have won this first round, expect B&N to try to patch the Nook at some point in the coming weeks. Only a minute number of Nook owners will likely root their device, so the book seller may not be in a huge rush to issue a fix.
A teardown and rooting guide are now available online, courtesy of NookDevs, which is the first team to successfully crack the Nook.
