Kobo Introduces $30 Bluetooth Remote for E-Readers Without Buttons

Key Takeaways

1. The Kobo Remote is a Bluetooth device designed for Kobo e-readers to turn pages and reduce hand strain.
2. It features two buttons: a larger one for turning pages and a smaller one, with no detailed functions provided.
3. The remote can also play/pause audiobooks and adjust volume, but lacks advanced controls like chapter skipping.
4. Weighing 36 grams, it measures 3.92 x 0.87 x 1.18 inches and operates on a single AAA battery lasting up to a month.
5. The Kobo Remote will be available for $29.99 starting November 4, and includes a battery and lanyard in the package.

Unlike Amazon, which has stopped selling Kindles that have physical buttons for turning pages, some of Rakuten’s Kobo e-readers, like the Kobo Libra Colour, still come with these handy buttons. But if you have a model that lacks them, like the Kobo Clara Colour (which is on Amazon for $159.99), there’s a fix — a $30 gadget called the Kobo Remote.

What is the Kobo Remote?

The Kobo Remote is a pill-shaped device specifically designed for Kobo e-readers. Per the product page, it connects through Bluetooth and pairs up easily with just one button press. The remote features two round buttons — a larger one that resembles a touchpad and a smaller one underneath. The exact functions of these buttons weren’t detailed, but Kobo claims users can turn pages with a simple click. They also mention that the remote aims to help reduce hand strain when reading.

Features and Limitations

While the Kobo Remote is primarily for turning pages on Kobo e-readers, the product page also states it can play/pause audiobooks and adjust their volume. However, it lacks more complex controls, like skipping chapters, which some users might expect.

The Kobo Remote weighs 36 grams and has dimensions of 3.92 x 0.87 x 1.18 inches. It utilizes Bluetooth 5.0, offering a range of up to 65 feet, and runs on a single AAA battery, which can last up to a month before needing replacement. Available in Black and White, the Kobo Remote will go on sale starting November 4 for $29.99. It comes packaged with a battery and a lanyard included in the box.

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