Barnes & Noble is fixing to release its "biggest" software update yet for its Nook e-reader, an upgrade that includes faster page turning, among other things.

Other new features on v.1.5 - available for free at the end of this month via Wi-Fi or www.NOOK.com/support - include an improved search function, customized library organization, password protection, and the ability to sync your reading progress across all Nook-enabled devices. So if you don't want to lug around that 12.1 oz Nook reader, you can pick up from where you left off on the Nook app via iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, PC, or Android smartphone.

Separately, Nook will also release a software update for its Android app by the end of this week. New features on v.2.3 include the ability to jump to a specific page number, search within a book, view highlights and notes, and delete books from the library. Check www.bn.com/nookforandroid for more information and download instructions.

Since launching in October 2009, the brick and mortar bookstore has been expanding its e-reader's multi-platform functionality to set itself further apart from rival e-book readers like Amazon's Kindle. The latest software updates follow other free new releases this summer such as a Web-based textbook rental service and software updates on its iPhone, iPad and Android apps. B&N also recently re-branded its smartphone platforms under the Nook title, from the previous B&N eReader name.

In June B&N also reduced the cost of its hardware. The price of the Nook 3G was reduced to $199 from $259, and a Wi-Fi only version was added to the lineup for $149.