Nook 7 for kids - Quick review

It has been a few months since I wrote a blog entry, so I figured I would write about the Nook 7 but not a traditional review.  I wanted to focus on the use of the Nook 7 as a child friendly device.

First, the biggest selling point is the hardware cost since it is only $50.  However if you are getting this for a child, I would suggest you look into the Nook foam bumper and it seems they (B&N) have an extended warranty for only $10 that covers damage but they don't do a good job of advertising it so ask about it.

For the OS / software, it feels like a stock Android device with Nook software installed - they didn't go crazy trying to make a custom interface and honestly I like the stock-like approach better.

For the child friendly setup, here are some of things to consider:

• During initial setup, you can either setup an account just for your child or use your own account.  If you do setup a new account, make sure you setup the family capabilities so you can share purchased items.
• Disable applications you do not need or do not want your child to access.
• If you have a Nook account, you can setup profiles on your account that way you can login to your Nook account but put the device on a profile just for your child.  This will allow you to restrict what they can access from your Nook library.
• In "Play Store", make sure you require authentication for all purchases
• In "Play Store", make sure you setup Parental Controls if your child is going to have access to apps like "Play Movies & TV".
• If you are going to use the table for videos/movies without internet access, you should look into getting a microSD card since the internal memory is limited.  Netflix and Google Play Movies & TV both allow offline saving of movies and both work with a memory card.
• If you are a heavy Amazon user, consider trying Amazon FreeTime.  It does a good job of only allowing your child to access what you want them to access.  You can either setup on a dedicated device like a Nook 7 or just run the app on your own phone/tablet for them to use.
• If you don't use Amazon FreeTime, try Luna Launcher - Kid Launcher.  It does a good job of limiting what your child can access.  You can keep them out of settings and certain apps, but still let them access

Overall the Nook 7's low cost makes it an ideal option for children just make sure you get the foam bumper and extra warranty.

As I continue to use/test the Nook 7, I will update this post.  Feel free to post questions or suggestions in the comments, I hope people find this information to be useful.