Given unnamed sources originally pitched NOOKcolor as an Android tablet, news that the e-reader is set to take a significant step towards realising such a dream is not so surprising.

A Barnes & Noble representative has revealed that the device – which launched in October and retails for $250 – will soon receive an update to run Android 2.2 (Froyo).

As such, users will be able to make use of typical Android tools and features when the update rolls out, such as pinch-to-zoom, improved battery life, and an as of yet unknown take on Android Market.

Marketplace muddle

It's this apparent implementation of Android Market that is causing confusion, however.

The rep who revealed the news apparently told SmartphoneMag.com that a 'retooled' version of the marketplace will be available on the e-reader when Froyo makes its debut.

As such, it's believed Barnes & Noble's version of Android Market may only sell Nook-specific apps designed via the NOOKdeveloper program - although the company itself seems wary of confirming the marketplace's existence in the first place.

A further statement released by Barnes & Noble reps to VentureBeat stressed that the firm has no plans to offer a full version of Android Market on NOOKcolor, any descriptions of the e-reader as an Android tablet proper arguably inaccruate as a result.

[source: VentureBeat]