Tag: E-Reader

  • Bigme B6: Affordable Color E Ink Reader with Android under $150

    Bigme B6: Affordable Color E Ink Reader with Android under $150

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Bigme B6 e-reader is priced at $139 and features a color display suitable for comics and manga, but color content has lower pixel density (150 PPI) compared to black and white (300 PPI).
    2. It has a slim design, measuring 6.98 mm thick and weighing approximately 176 grams, powered by an octa-core CPU with 4GB of RAM running Android 14.
    3. The device offers 64 GB of built-in storage, expandable via memory card, allowing for app installations and extensive book storage.
    4. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5 GHz) and Bluetooth, enhancing its usability and features compared to typical e-readers.
    5. The B6 has adjustable display brightness and color temperature, along with a 2,100 mAh battery for extended reading sessions.

    Bigme has launched a new e-reader called the B6, priced at $139. This model features a color display that makes it suitable for viewing comics and manga. However, it’s important to note that the pixel density decreases when color is in use: black and white content shows at 300 PPI, whereas color content is limited to only 150 PPI. The touchscreen is 6 inches diagonally, with touch controls located at the bottom for various functions, like changing screens.

    Slim and Lightweight Design

    The e-reader has a thickness of 6.98 millimeters and weighs approximately 176 grams. It is powered by an octa-core CPU, and with 4GB of RAM, it should run Android 14 quite smoothly. Plus, users can download additional apps from the Google Play Store, significantly enhancing its functionality compared to other e-readers that often have restricted or proprietary operating systems.

    Ample Storage and Connectivity

    With 64 GB of built-in storage, the B6 not only allows app installations but also offers plenty of space for storing numerous books. Users can easily expand this storage with a memory card. For connectivity, the device supports Wi-Fi on both 2.4 and 5 GHz bands, along with Bluetooth capability. The display’s brightness and color temperature are adjustable, providing a customizable reading experience. The e-reader is equipped with a 2,100 mAh battery.

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  • Durobo Krono: Unique Android E-Reader, Not Just a Smartphone

    Durobo Krono: Unique Android E-Reader, Not Just a Smartphone

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Durobo Krono is a smart ePaper device designed similarly to smartphones, with a focus on portability and unique design features.
    2. It includes a cylindrical Axis with a recording dial and an integrated AI assistant named Libby for capturing voice notes and reminders.
    3. The device features a 6.13-inch HD touch display, octa-core processor, 6GB RAM, and 128GB storage, with an adjustable dual-tone front light.
    4. It supports audio playback for audiobooks and podcasts, and runs on an open version of Android 13 for app downloads, like WhatsApp.
    5. The Krono will be available in Black and White, launching in August with early bird discounts offered on its Indiegogo page.

    There’s a growing interest in e-readers designed like smartphones, including models like the Boox Palma 2 and the Moaan inkPalm 5, which are easier to carry than traditional e-readers such as the Kindle. Entering this competitive market is the Durobo Krono, which distinguishes itself with a unique design.

    Unique Design Features

    The Durobo (stylized as DuRoBo) Krono is classified as a smart ePaper gadget and shares a similar form to the Boox Palma 2. They almost have the same specifications. What sets the Durobo apart is its intriguing design and added functionalities that the Boox Palma 2 does not offer (currently listed on Amazon for $269).

    The front of the device may seem rather plain with its sturdy bezels, including a notably thicker chin, but the back and sides draw more attention. A cylindrical tube spans the width of the Krono, ending in a dial on the left and a round power button on the right. This cylindrical feature is called the Axis, and it includes several LEDs described as “breathing lights.”

    Innovative Features

    The dial on the left functions as a recording button when held down. Durobo claims this allows users to quickly capture thoughts, reminders, or voice notes that can later be transformed into text and summarized using AI. A quick tap on the dial brings up the integrated AI assistant known as Libby. However, Durobo hasn’t specified if the dial can be used for scrolling through menus, webpages, or text.

    In terms of specifications, the Krono boasts a 6.13-inch HD Carta 1200 touch display with a resolution of 1648 × 824 (300 ppi) and an adjustable dual-tone front light. The device is powered by an octa-core processor, accompanied by 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. Additionally, it features a 3,950mAh battery that charges via USB-C.

    Audio and App Capabilities

    The Krono is equipped with dual microphones and speakers, allowing users to enjoy audiobooks, podcasts, or listen to recorded audio. It operates on an open version of Android 13, enabling users to download Android apps like WhatsApp for voice calls over Wi-Fi, since it does not include a SIM card slot.

    The Durobo Krono will come in Black and White, and it’s set to launch in August, though pricing details remain unclear. Interested customers can register on the device’s Indiegogo page for an early bird discount and a complimentary protective case.

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  • Amazon Launches Affordable Kindle Colorsoft with Color Display

    Amazon Launches Affordable Kindle Colorsoft with Color Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazon has launched two new models of the Kindle Colorsoft: a base version with reduced storage and no wireless charging, and a Kids Edition with added features.
    2. Both models feature a 7-inch Colorsoft display that shows color and grayscale, ideal for reading comics and highlighting text.
    3. The display includes a front light with adjustable color temperature for comfortable reading at any time.
    4. The Kindle Colorsoft boasts an energy-efficient E Ink panel, offering up to eight weeks of battery life.
    5. The device is waterproof, lightweight (215 grams), and slightly larger than a smartphone, making it portable and user-friendly.

    Amazon has recently unveiled two fresh models of the Kindle Colorsoft. One of them is a new base version that reduces the built-in flash storage to 16 GB and skips wireless charging, which makes it $30 cheaper. The Kids Edition mirrors the new base model but includes a protective case, a 12-month Amazon Kids+ subscription, and a two-year worry-free guarantee. The pricing for all Kindle Colorsoft models is as follows:

    Features and Specifications

    Other than the smaller storage and absence of wireless charging, every Kindle Colorsoft variant shares the same features. The standout aspect is the 7-inch Colorsoft display, which for the first time can show color in addition to grayscale. This enhancement makes the Kindle Colorsoft perfect for enjoying comics and manga, and the colors also aid in highlighting important text.

    Display and Battery Life

    The display comes with a front light that allows users to adjust the color temperature from cool white to warm white, ensuring a comfy reading experience at any hour. Thanks to its energy-efficient E Ink panel, the Kindle Colorsoft promises a battery life of up to eight weeks. It measures 17.6 x 12.7 x 0.78 centimeters and weighs 215 grams, making it waterproof and only slightly bigger than a smartphone.

    Conclusion

    Amazon’s latest offerings in the Kindle Colorsoft line are designed to enhance the reading experience while providing various options to suit different needs and preferences. With its innovative display and long battery life, it presents a compelling choice for readers.

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    Amazon Launches Affordable Kindle Colorsoft with Color DisplayAmazon Launches Affordable Kindle Colorsoft with Color Display

     

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  • Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+: Android E-Reader Like Kindle Oasis

    Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+: Android E-Reader Like Kindle Oasis

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+ is an e-reader designed similarly to the Kindle Oasis, featuring an ergonomic grip and a level screen.
    2. It operates on an open system with Android 14, allowing for potential installation of additional apps, though access to the Google Play Store may be limited.
    3. The device is equipped with a Qualcomm SoC, 4 GB of RAM, and 64 GB of internal memory.
    4. It features an E Ink Carta 1300 display with a resolution of 1,264 x 1,680, displaying only grayscale.
    5. Weighing 175 grams, the Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+ is priced around $220 and will launch in China.

    Some months ago, we mentioned the N10 Pro from Hanvon, and now they are introducing another device to their lineup. The Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+ is an e-reader that shares a design resemblance with the Kindle Oasis. The Kindle Oasis features a distinct heel, giving one side a thicker profile that serves as an ergonomic grip, making it easier to hold. The screen is level with the casing and the edges, rather than being set back. Only two buttons are visible on the front, which are clearly intended for turning pages.

    Open System Features

    Unlike the Kindle Oasis, the Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+ operates more like an open system, at least in theory. It runs on Android 14 as its operating system. While accessing the Google Play Store may not be possible, users should be able to install additional apps later, which could enhance the device’s functionality.

    Internal Specifications

    Inside, it houses a Qualcomm SoC with four processing cores, along with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal memory. The display is an E Ink Carta 1300 screen with a resolution of 1,264 x 1,680, which only displays grayscale, lacking color support. For connectivity, it offers Wi-Fi, and it also supports Bluetooth.

    Weighing in at 175 grams, this e-reader is set to launch in China at a price around $220. A comparable option with similar specifications is the Meebook M8 E-Reader, available on Amazon.

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  • Verse Lite: Essential E-Book Reader with Online Lending Support

    Verse Lite: Essential E-Book Reader with Online Lending Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PocketBook Verse Lite is a classic e-reader focused solely on reading, without additional tablet functionalities or app support.
    2. It features a 6-inch e-ink display with a pixel density of 212 DPI and a built-in front light, but it does not support colors or have physical buttons for page turning.
    3. The device weighs about 6 ounces, measures 4.3 x 6.1 x 0.3 inches, and is not waterproof.
    4. It is powered by a dual-core SoC at 1.0GHz, with 512MB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage, and a 1,000mAh battery.
    5. The Verse Lite supports WiFi for downloading books, online book lending, and is compatible with 25 different e-book formats, including a built-in dictionary.

    Some readers might know about PocketBook, a brand that is currently offering the new Verse Lite e-reader at various retailers. You can also purchase it from a seller on Amazon’s marketplace in the US for $156, plus shipping costs.

    Classic E-Reader Design

    The PocketBook Verse Lite functions as a traditional e-reader, focusing on book reading rather than other tablet functionalities. This sets it apart from other Android tablets that come with e-ink screens. As a result, users can’t add more apps to the Verse Lite, and it doesn’t have support for a stylus, either.

    Specifications and Features

    The e-book reader weighs about 6 ounces and does not feature a physical button for page turning. According to the manufacturer, it’s not waterproof. However, it does offer a 6-inch e-ink display with a pixel density of 212 DPI, which can show 16 shades of gray, but not colors. There’s a built-in front light, which comes in handy for reading at night.

    Performance and Storage

    The e-reader is equipped with a dual-core SoC that runs at 1.0GHz, along with 512MB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage. It also has a 1,000mAh battery integrated within. The device is about 4.3 x 6.1 x 0.3 inches in size and can download new books using WiFi, for example, from PocketBook Cloud or Dropbox. It supports online book lending, which can help save some money. Finally, it includes a dictionary and is compatible with 25 different e-book formats.

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  • N10 Pro: New Android Tablet with E-Ink Display and Stylus Released

    N10 Pro: New Android Tablet with E-Ink Display and Stylus Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Hanvon N10 Pro e-reader has been upgraded with a stylus that attaches to the device and features 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity.
    2. It includes four microphones for voice memos and has a new slimmer display that offers 33% greater contrast and brightness.
    3. Internal storage has been increased to 128GB, doubling the previous capacity of 64GB.
    4. The device retains a 10.3-inch screen with 300 PPI pixel density but does not support color.
    5. Powered by a 6,500mAh battery and running on Android 14, the e-reader is priced at around $430 in China.

    Some people who like technology might recall the Hanvon N10 Pro, an e-reader that was introduced last year. It’s basically a tablet featuring an e-ink display. Now, a new generation has been released that brings several enhancements, though the core idea remains unchanged.

    Notable Upgrades

    One of the most apparent updates is the ability to attach the stylus to the right side of the tablet, which is convenient for users who often misplace these little items. The stylus comes in the package, doesn’t need charging, and boasts 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity along with multiple buttons for added functionality.

    Enhanced Features

    This e-ink tablet also integrates four microphones, which can be handy for capturing voice memos. A less obvious improvement is the new display, which is reported to be nearly 33% slimmer and delivers greater contrast and brightness for enhanced image clarity. Additionally, the internal storage has been upgraded to 128GB, doubling the previous 64GB.

    Specifications and Pricing

    Despite these upgrades, the e-reader maintains a 10.3-inch screen with a pixel density of 300 PPI, a standard density for contemporary e-ink tablets. However, it’s important to note that the display doesn’t support color. The device measures only 0.21 inches in thickness and is powered by a 6,500mAh battery. Lastly, it operates on Android 14 and is currently priced at around $430 in China.

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  • BOOX Palma 2 Launch: New Features and Fingerprint Sensor Added

    BOOX Palma 2 Launch: New Features and Fingerprint Sensor Added

    More than a year ago, Onyx introduced the BOOX Palma, an e-reader powered by Android that resembles a smartphone, making it easy to fit in your pocket. Now, they have released the BOOX Palma 2, which keeps the same beloved design but adds some enhancements.

    Design and Aesthetics

    The BOOX Palma 2 doesn’t show many visible changes compared to its predecessor. It continues to come in Ivory White and Deep Cyan Black colors, both featuring a textured, rock-like finish on the back. One minor update is that the light sensor appears to be a bit larger on the Palma 2.

    Display and Comfort

    The e-reader maintains the 6.13-inch display of the original Palma. With its phone-like aspect ratio and design, it’s more pleasant to hold than the BOOX Go 6. The display includes a front light that allows for adjustable color temperature settings.

    Internal Specs and Features

    Not much has changed with the internal specifications either. The BOOX Palma 2 is still equipped with a Qualcomm chipset and utilizes BOOX Super Refresh technology. It also features 6GB of RAM along with 128GB of expandable storage. The 16MP rear camera for document scanning remains unchanged, and the battery capacity continues to be at 3,950mAh. Additionally, Wi-Fi 6 is still absent from this model.

    Software Enhancements

    One notable update is the new Android version. While the original BOOX Palma (available on Amazon for $279.99) came with Android 11, the Palma 2 operates on Android 13 right from the start. New software features include an AI assistant that can respond to queries, as well as the ability to customize fonts, spacing, and margins.

    Security and Usability

    A significant new feature is the fingerprint sensor designed to enhance security. Located under the power button, users can unlock the Palma 2 by simply touching the power button with their registered finger. Like its predecessor, it also comes with stereo speakers and microphones, allowing you to listen to podcasts and record voice memos.

    The BOOX Palma 2 is priced at €299.99 and includes a translucent case. There’s also an option for a foldable case, priced at €7.99. You can purchase the BOOX Palma 2 now from the BOOX online store and on Amazon.

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  • Leak Uncovers Waterproof Kindle Paperwhite Gen 12 with Bigger Screen

    Leak Uncovers Waterproof Kindle Paperwhite Gen 12 with Bigger Screen

    A few weeks back, a leak hinted at the Amazon Kindle (2024), and now a Reddit user named gavan820 has shared images (shown below) that supposedly depict the new Kindle Paperwhite Gen 12. From these pictures, it appears that Amazon has made minimal updates to the design, with only the edges of the screen being slightly narrower. However, the back of the packaging indicates that the screen size has been increased from 6.8 inches to 7 inches.

    Enhanced Display Features

    Once again, the display features front lighting, which users can adjust for brightness and color temperature. Similar to the last model, the Kindle Paperwhite is IPX8 certified, meaning it is completely waterproof and can be used in places like a pool without worry. This new e-reader still offers 16 GB of flash storage.

    Battery and Charging

    The packaging claims that the battery can last “several weeks” and charges through USB-C at a maximum of 7.5 watts. It mentions that a charging cable is provided, although a charger is not included. The business model seems to remain the same, as the label states that the Kindle Paperwhite shows ads on the lock screen, which can be removed for a fee.

    Minimal Changes Noted

    So, based on this packaging, it looks like the only difference between the Kindle Paperwhite Gen 12 and the 2021 version is the slightly larger display. However, there’s a chance that Amazon might upgrade the MediaTek MT8110 chip to a newer one, possibly add a bigger battery, or even introduce wireless charging to the standard model, which has only been available in the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition until now.

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  • MooInk Nana E-Reader with 7-Inch Kaleido 3 Display for Comics

    MooInk Nana E-Reader with 7-Inch Kaleido 3 Display for Comics

    The MooInk Nana is an ultra-slim e-reader, measuring just 7.8 millimeters thick and weighing only 215 grams. It features a 7-inch E Ink display, specifically a modern Kaleido 3 panel. This display can show 16 shades of gray and 4,096 colors, boasting a 30% increase in saturation compared to the previous Kaleido Plus version.

    Display Features

    The resolution of the display is 1,680 x 1,264 pixels, achieving a pixel density of 300 PPI for grayscale content. When it comes to color display, the resolution drops to 840 x 632 pixels with a pixel density of 150 PPI. The integrated lighting allows users to switch between cool white and warm white, making it easy to read in dark environments. Additionally, the front of the device features three buttons that facilitate easy page turning, and the display can be rotated, allowing users to position the buttons on the left, right, or bottom as needed.

    Performance and Connectivity

    Powering the e-reader is a 1.8 GHz quad-core processor, paired with 2 GB of RAM and 256 GB of flash storage, which is ample space for storing thousands of books, comics, and manga. While the manufacturer hasn’t disclosed the battery life of the 2,300 mAh battery, it does support charging via USB-C. The MooInk Nana runs on Android 11, ensuring compatibility with most e-book applications. Additionally, it includes Bluetooth 5.2 for connecting headphones and Wi-Fi 5 for downloading apps and books wirelessly.

    Price and Availability

    The MooInk Nana e-reader is currently listed on the manufacturer’s website for NTD 7,288, which is approximately $230. Shipping fees will vary based on the buyer’s location.

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  • iReader Smart 5 Pro: 10.3-inch 300 PPI Screen, 8-core CPU, GPU

    iReader Smart 5 Pro: 10.3-inch 300 PPI Screen, 8-core CPU, GPU

    iReader has introduced their newest e-reader, the Smart 5 Pro, which aims to provide a more seamless and quicker reading experience. Pre-orders are currently available, with the official launch set for July 29th.

    The Smart 5 Pro e-reader starts at 3,099 Yuan ($426)

    This e-reader features a major upgrade in display quality, sporting a 10.3-inch 300 PPI Retina-level screen with a Carta 1200 panel. According to iReader, this represents a 75% increase in resolution compared to earlier models. The display is further enhanced with ultra-high-transmittance ion-tempered glass, resulting in slim bezels on three sides and an impressive 84% screen-to-body ratio.

    Enhanced Performance and Speed

    Beyond the improved display, the Smart 5 Pro is powered by an 8-core processor and an independent GPU, which iReader claims lead to noticeable speed enhancements. Users will experience faster app opening times (up to 88% faster), quicker book loading (up to 47% faster), smoother transitions in comics (up to 52% faster), and a more responsive experience with PDFs (up to 38% faster).

    The Smart 5 Pro operates on SmartOS 2.2, which includes i-Display 2.0 technology and global gesture controls for easy navigation. Additionally, iReader’s self-developed GPU Turbo promises further performance enhancements at the system level.

    Additional Features

    The Smart 5 Pro also includes several features designed to improve the reading experience. These encompass AI meeting minutes and note outlines, real-time audio-to-text conversion, and a global black-and-white inversion mode to facilitate comfortable reading in dark settings. The reading light has been upgraded with new lamp beads and a light guide plate to ensure improved uniformity.

    Storage and Editions

    The iReader Smart 5 Pro is equipped with 4GB of memory and 128GB of storage, capable of holding an estimated library of 50,000 e-books and 20,000 PDFs. The e-reader is currently available for pre-order in three versions: a standard edition, a bundle with an elegant black smart magnetic cover, and a bundle with the Qingyulan smart magnetic cover. Prices begin at 3099 yuan (around $426 USD).

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