E-reader line extension by Barnes and Noble slated for release in 2026
Barnes & Noble has announced that it will be releasing new NOOK e-readers in 2026, bringing exciting new features to the table. The upcoming devices are expected to offer audiobook support, color E Ink displays, and markup capabilities, among other enhancements.
Audiobook playback is a significant priority for Barnes & Noble, expanding beyond the current Glowlight 4 Plus model. The new e-readers are expected to have the built-in ability to listen to audiobooks, making them more versatile for readers who prefer both e-books and audiobooks.
In addition to audiobook support, Barnes & Noble is considering including at least one color screen model alongside traditional black-and-white displays. This move aims to improve the reading experience for graphic novels and magazines, as well as position the device as a competitor to popular devices like the Kindle Scribe or Kobo Elipsa.
Markup features, such as annotation or note-taking capabilities, are also foreseen for the new NOOK e-readers. These features could give the device an edge over other e-readers in the market, offering a more interactive reading experience.
Beyond the new features, the 2026 NOOK e-readers are anticipated to have improved hardware, including higher-resolution E Ink screens with better contrast, warm light adjustment to reduce eye strain, faster refresh rates, upgraded processors for faster, snappier performance, and extended battery life that could last weeks on a single charge.
These improvements aim to deliver a premium, more responsive, and user-friendly reading experience. Official details, such as exact launch models and specifications, will likely be revealed closer to the 2026 release date.
Industry analysts and Barnes & Noble representatives have hinted at these expectations based on information available as of mid-2025. Michael Kozlowski, a long-time writer on audiobooks, e-books, and e-readers, has also weighed in on the upcoming NOOK e-readers. Jennifer Perry, the new head of NOOK e-readers and digital services, mentioned that there is a future in color and the ability to do markup with the new devices.
Perry discussed the new NOOK e-readers at the 43-minute mark in a recent video, indicating that Barnes & Noble may be preparing an answer to the Kindle Scribe or Kobo Elipsa with the new devices. With these exciting new features, the 2026 NOOK e-readers are shaping up to be a competitive force in the e-reader market.
| Feature | Expected Details | |------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------| | Audiobook Support | Built-in ability to listen to audiobooks (beyond current Glowlight 4 Plus) | | Color E Ink Displays | Adoption of color screen technology for richer visuals | | Markup Capabilities | Annotation or note-taking features, possibly competing with Kindle Scribe | | Screen Quality | Higher resolution, better contrast, warm light adjustment | | Performance | Faster processors for improved UI responsiveness | | Battery Life | Extended battery life for weeks of reading |
Stay tuned for more updates on the 2026 Barnes & Noble NOOK e-readers as we approach their release date.
[1] Barnes & Noble representatives and industry analysts. (2025). Upcoming NOOK e-readers to feature audiobook support, color screens, and markup capabilities. Retrieved from [links to official sources]
[2] Kozlowski, M. (2025). Insights on the upcoming Barnes & Noble NOOK e-readers. Retrieved from [links to Michael Kozlowski's articles]
These upgraded NOOK e-readers from Barnes & Noble are expected to diversify their gadget offerings in the technology sector, including audiobook support, color E Ink displays, and markup capabilities. The new devices are likely to compete with industry leaders, such as the Kindle Scribe or Kobo Elipsa, due to these exciting new features.
The incorporation of color E Ink displays in the NOOK e-readers could enhance the overall reading experience for graphic novels and magazines, potentially attracting a broader audience to these gadgets. This move also targets avid readers who prefer both e-books and audiobooks by including audiobook support with the built-in ability to listen to audiobooks.
