One can tell how serious a threat the iPad is to the e-book reader market, without even seeing iPad sales figures. On Monday, Barnes & Noble lowered the price of its Nook, and Amazon.com lowered the price of its Kindle.
Barnes & Noble announced the price of the 3G version of the Nook will be lowered to $199, from $259. Why did we have to preface that statement with "3G version?" It's because B&N also announced a wi-fi-only version, for $149. The original Nook has both types of connectivity.
B&N stated the new wi-fi version will be in-stock in "select" Barnes & Noble and Best Buy stores later this month. It will roll out to all stores "later this summer."
Meanwhile, Amazon.com announced a price cut from $259 to $189 for the Kindle.
These prices are compelling, even with the threat of the iPad. Dedicated e-book readers are particularly easier on the eyes in sunlight than the iPad. While, the Kindle doesn't have wi-fi, the undercutting of the original Nook's new price might mean a further cut to its price.
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