OKPad, a novel dual-screen tablet from Bluegen, has initiated its crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. This innovative gadget features an 8.9-inch IPS LCD display paired with a 7.8-inch E Ink screen, blending the best of both worlds for entertainment and productivity.
OKPad Specifications:
The IPS LCD screen is designed for typical tablet activities, while the E-Ink display, known for its paper-like texture and reduced eye strain, is perfect for reading, note-taking, and sketching. Both screens support touch functionality, and the E-Ink display offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, delivering a natural writing experience with the included Wacom stylus.
The tablet includes a 360-degree hinge, enabling smooth transitions between different modes. You can fold it like a traditional laptop for work or presentations, set it in tent mode for comfortable reading, or flip the screens entirely for a dedicated E-Reader experience.
Versatile Design and Performance
The OKPad is equipped with a durable 7000mAh battery, expandable storage, and a dedicated button for easy switching between displays. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 series processor, supported by 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, which might seem modest for a device launching in 2024.
The tablet also features an 8MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera to cover basic photo and video needs. Running on Android 10, the slightly older operating system could be a deliberate choice for better software optimization with the E-Ink display, as eReaders often lag in adopting the latest Android updates. The age of the processor might also restrict future software upgrades.
For connectivity, the OKPad includes WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2. The device sports a sturdy aluminum alloy body, stereo speakers, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
Pricing and Availability
Bluegen's Kickstarter campaign for the OKPad offers several pricing tiers: the Super Early Bird special at $199 for the first 100 backers (50% off), followed by the Early Bird price of $249 for the next 200 backers (around 38% off), and a Kickstarter Special at $299 (about 25% off). Each tier offers significant savings compared to the regular price of $399. The company anticipates starting shipments in August 2024.
