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Nook Users Struggle with Lenovo M9 Tablets
So, here’s the deal—Barnes & Noble (B&N) is catching heat again. Why? Because if you snag a regular Lenovo M9 tablet, it turns out the Nook Android app won’t work on it. Yeah, seriously. The only way to get the app is to buy the co-branded Lenovo M9 Nook version, which costs more. It’s frustrating, right?
What’s Going On?
Apparently, B&N pulled the Nook app from the Google Play Store specifically for the standard Lenovo M9 tablet (model TB310FU). If you check their help page, they’re not even hinting at when—or if—this will be fixed. So, if you went for the cheaper version of the tablet, you’re stuck without access to their reading platform. Annoying much?
Here’s a quote from B&N’s help page regarding the matter:
If you are using a Lenovo M9 Tablet that is not a co-branded NOOK model, you will not be able to download the Barnes & Noble NOOK App for Android on to that device.
Due to a conflict with the launch of the NOOK 9” Lenovo Tablet, we had to pull the NOOK app from the Google Play store for any device with the model code TB310FU. We currently don’t have a timeline for when this might be resolved and regret this inconvenience.
As always, NOOK content is available for purchase on bn.com and can be read on all NOOK devices and our free Barnes & Noble NOOK Reading Apps.
Why Does This Even Matter?
Here’s the kicker: the Nook-branded Lenovo M9 costs $149, while the standard one is usually around $99–$109. That’s a pretty big price difference. And if you think you’re saving a few bucks by going for the standard version, surprise—you’re out of luck with the Nook app. It kind of feels like B&N is nudging people toward the pricier option, doesn’t it?
Alternatives Worth a Look
If you’re shopping around for an e-reader, this might make you reconsider the whole Nook ecosystem. For instance, devices like the AiPaper Mini offer Android-based setups with way fewer restrictions. And if you’re already into Kindle, the Kindle app’s in-app purchasing feature makes grabbing books super easy these days.
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t the first time B&N has pulled something like this. Critics are saying it’s another ploy to funnel users into buying their hardware. And honestly, it’s hard not to agree. They’ve been called out before for poor support and other questionable decisions that leave Nook users scratching their heads.
What Can Nook Readers Do?
So, if you’re on a budget and still want to stick with Nook, your options are… limited. You could pay extra for the Nook-branded tablet, or maybe look into other reading apps that let you sideload your eBooks. By the way, Kindle sideloading could be a good workaround for library content. It’s not ideal, but hey, it’s something.
Final Thoughts
Thinking about grabbing a Lenovo M9 for Nook? Honestly, tread carefully. What seems like a bargain could end up costing more than you’d planned. Plus, with all the buzz about new e-readers in 2025, there might be better options around the corner—especially if you want something versatile without all the restrictions.
At the end of the day, it feels like B&N is making things harder for their customers. This is not a good thing because there are many other choices out there. That’s a risky move. What do you think? should we give up on the Nook, or is it worth staying with it?
