Google eBookstore's first exclusive eReading device. Meh.

It’s not really a groundbreaking story, but certainly one that speaks of a subtext concerning Google‘s permanence in the eBook market. Except for Google, all of the major online book retailers had up to this point partnered with or produced an eReading device of their own. Kindle, Nook and Kobo et al. Google Bookstore was only available as a downloadable app for various tablets, computer and smartphone systems. It was not available on a eReader.

Until now. The Los Angeles Times reports:

Google Books can be purchased from the Google eBookstore on all sorts of desktops, laptops and tablets — iPads, Galaxy Tabs, G-Slates and Flyers — but as of yet no e-readers.

Not on a Kobo. Or a Kindle. Or a Nook.

But that is set to change Sunday, when the iRiver Story HD e-reader hits Target stores across the U.S. and becomes the first e-reader to connect to the Google eBookstore.

The LA Times goes on to point out the somewhat mystifying use of the term, “HD,” which typically signifies “High Definition.” High Def is something without a purpose in the eInk realm.

Early images of the iRiver device leave something to be desired. It is worth noting that the device is not affiliated with Google other than the fact that it is the first device to come preloaded with Google eBookstore. So as stated at the beginning of this post, it’s not necssarily about a potential game-changer entering the market, because iRiver looks like anything but that, but more-so about the concept that Google eBookstore may be here to stay and maybe even willing to evolve.

Okay. I confess. That evolution bit was purely wishful thinking.