Finally, the Microsoft Reader is a digital publishing format that really knocks me out.

CNN: Career - E-books: Now in the careerist's bookbag

What's more, Franklin Electronics is soon to launch a handheld gadget that combines Microsoft Reader with the ability to play audio books and MP3 music.

CNN: Career - E-books: Now in the careerist's bookbag

Prior to ending development last year, the company offered its Microsoft Reader software for about a decade -- first on handheld devices using Windows CE and Windows Mobile and later on desktop Windows.

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The company also announced that it is collaborating with Microsoft to bring Microsoft Reader software to the EBookman series and says that it had also struck a deal with Audible to bring audio books to the EBookman line.

CNN: Franklin writes a new chapter in e-books

The cloud-based app, which delivers full Microsoft Office capabilities and Adobe Reader, along with Dropbox, Box and Google Drive integration, transforms the iPad and Android tablets into a one-stop-shop for mobile productivity, capable of creating, editing, saving and sharing Office and Adobe documents while on the go.

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Shares in the bookstore chain Barnes and Noble have shot up after reports Microsoft was planning to buy its Nook e-reader division.

BBC: Barnes & Noble shares jump 24% on reports of Nook bid