Barnes & Noble has released its Nook eReader app for Microsoft’s Windows 8 platform.

The app is part of news that the two companies have formed a strategic partnership, creating a new Barnes & Noble subsidiary focused on digital content. The new subsidiary, which is being referred to as “Newco”, brings Barnes & Noble’s digital and college businesses into one business unit. Microsoft will invest $300 million in the company in exchange for an approximately 17.6% equity stake. Barnes & Noble will own the rest.

William Lynch, CEO of Barnes & Noble, stated: “The formation of Newco and our relationship with Microsoft are important parts of our strategy to capitalize on the rapid growth of the NOOK business, and to solidify our position as a leader in the exploding market for digital content in the consumer and education segments.”