Tag: E-Reader

  • Poke 7 Boox Ereader Gets Colorful Design Upgrade

    Poke 7 Boox Ereader Gets Colorful Design Upgrade

    Key Takeaway

    1. The upcoming Poke 7 series features a colorful, ribbed design offering better grip, contrasting with previous models’ black and white options.
    2. The series will be officially announced in China on May 21, with three color options: Blue, White, and Sand.
    3. Pre-orders are available on Taobao with early benefits, a price guarantee until the 618 festival, and priority shipping.
    4. The Poke 7 series is expected to have a global release under a different name in the future.

    Upcoming Poke 7 Series by Onyx

    Just a few weeks after the release of the Boox Leaf5+, Onyx is teasing new ereaders which is gonna be reveal later this month. The upcoming devices are part of the Poke 7 series, and they feature a newly designed, colorful look that stands out from previous models.

    Colors & Design Style

    The official posters, shared on Weibo, show that the Poke 7 series will be available in three different colors: Blue, White, and Sand. These devices have a ribbed back surface that not only looks good but also offers a firm grip. The monochrome display is flushed, adding to a clean, modern appearance. Unlike older Boox models that mainly came in dull black or white with smooth surfaces, this new line is definitely more vibrant and user-friendly.

    Pre-order & Availability

    Although detailed technical specs are still unavailable, Boox has opened pre-orders for the Poke 7 series on Taobao. Customers who pre-order can benefit from early bird discounts and get a price guarantee until the 618 shopping festival. Also, pre-order buyers will receive priority shipping, ensuring they get their devices faster. The launch event for these ereaders is scheduled for May 21 in China, where the devices will be officially unveiled.

    Global Launch & Expectations

    While the Poke 7 series is initially launching in China, it’s highly likely that these ereaders will make a debut worldwide in the future, possibly under a different name. Fans of Onyx are excited to see what the new models will bring, especially considering the fresh colorful design and improved grip features. No technical specs are confirmed yet, so enthusiasts should stay tuned for more updates soon.

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  • PocketBook Launches InkPad One: New E-Reader with Note-Taking

    PocketBook Launches InkPad One: New E-Reader with Note-Taking

    Key Takeaways

    1. The InkPad One e-reader is priced at €299 and currently only available in Germany.
    2. It runs on a Linux system and supports multiple formats without conversion, including EPUB, PDF, and comic formats.
    3. The device features a 10.3-inch E Ink Mobius display with a resolution of 1,404 x 1,872 and adaptive SmartLight for optimal reading conditions.
    4. Users can take notes with a Stylus 2, and the device supports audio playback and text-to-speech features.
    5. Content can be synced and transferred via PocketBook Cloud, Dropbox, and Send-to-PocketBook.


    PocketBook has introduced a new e-reader called the InkPad One. This device is currently available in Matte Black for €299, but it’s only being sold in Germany at this time. Details regarding its release in other countries are yet to be announced.

    Features and Compatibility

    The InkPad One runs on a Linux system and supports an open ecosystem, allowing users to access content without being tied to specific stores or platforms. Users can buy or borrow ebooks from public libraries, like Onleihe or Libby. The device is compatible with 25 popular formats without needing conversion, such as EPUB, FB2, PDF, AZW, as well as comic formats like CBR and CBZ. PocketBook claims that ebooks protected by Adobe DRM and LCP DRM are easy to download. Users can also sync and transfer their content through PocketBook Cloud, Dropbox, and Send-to-PocketBook.

    Display and Design

    This e-reader features a 10.3-inch E Ink Mobius display, which is touted as lighter and more durable, with anti-glare properties that make it easy to read even when exposed to bright sunlight. Its resolution stands at 1,404 x 1,872, with a pixel density of 226 ppi. Additionally, the display includes adaptive SmartLight that adjusts to varying light conditions for optimal viewing.

    Note-Taking and Audio Features

    Beyond just reading, the InkPad One also lets users take notes. It includes a note-taking function that allows users to make comments and annotations using the provided Stylus 2. The device is slim at just 5.15 mm and supports audio playback for audiobooks and other audio files via Bluetooth. Furthermore, it has a text-to-speech feature that can read text files aloud.

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  • Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft e-Reader Launches New Model Variant

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft e-Reader Launches New Model Variant

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazon has released a new color option, “Fig,” for the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, with no changes to features or specifications.
    2. The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft (64GB) is priced at $679 and will be available in the US on January 28.
    3. Availability in other markets is currently uncertain but expected to follow.
    4. The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft includes advanced features like note-taking with a stylus, AI-driven search, and chatbot capabilities.
    5. It has an 11-inch color display that offers excellent contrast and a paper-like feel.


    Amazon has introduced a fresh model of the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft. There are no alterations in features or specifications, as this is merely a new color choice. This new hue, named “Fig,” adds a bit of flair, although its overall look stays the same due to its subtle tone and not a vibrant finish.

    Pricing and Availability

    According to Amazon, the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft with 64GB of storage will be priced at $679 and is set to arrive in the US on January 28. It’s still uncertain if or when this new version of the e-reader will be available in other markets and locations, but it should just be a matter of time.

    Features and Functionality

    Regardless, the Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft is a fully-equipped e-reader that also comes with some advanced capabilities. For example, users can jot down notes using the included stylus, and there’s an AI-driven search and chatbot feature accessible too.

    Consequently, handwritten notes can be searched with ease, and files can be imported from Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive. The latter can also be utilized to send notes to Microsoft OneNote. Finally, this e-reader features an 11-inch color display that reportedly provides excellent contrast ratios and a paper-like sensation.

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  • Kobo Libra Color E-Reader Upgrade: Larger Battery & Pen Support

    Kobo Libra Color E-Reader Upgrade: Larger Battery & Pen Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Kobra Libra Color now has an updated battery capacity of 2,300 mAh, a 10% increase from the previous model.
    2. Customers can’t easily identify which version they are buying; they must check the device information on the e-reader.
    3. The new model is indicated by N428B, while the older version is marked as N428.
    4. Ordering multiple versions to find the updated model may be time-consuming and not eco-friendly.
    5. Potential buyers should research and consider their options carefully to ensure they get the desired model.


    The Kobra Libra Color has been on the market for some time, with prices below $210. Recently, Good E Reader has shared that a new version of this model is available, featuring some updates. The most notable change is the battery, which now has a capacity of 2,300 mAh, up from 2,050 mAh. This represents a 10% increase, which should provide even longer battery life, although e-readers typically already have good battery performance. However, there’s a significant drawback: customers cannot easily know which version they’ll get before buying. To find out, they have to check the device information on the e-reader itself, where N428B indicates the new model and N428 signifies the older one.

    Shopping Challenges

    In theory, customers might order several versions from different online stores and return any old models they receive (if they can), but this process is quite lengthy and not very eco-friendly. Those eager to get the updated version might improve their odds by purchasing from retailers with high sales volumes or by waiting a few more days. For readers who are not well-acquainted with the models, they can reference our review of the similarly equipped Tolino Vision Color (available in German only) from 2024. This model also has IPX8 certification, can be used with a stylus, and runs on Linux instead of Android.

    Conclusion

    Good E Reader has highlighted these updates, but potential buyers should be cautious and aware of the challenges involved in selecting the right version. It’s important to do research and consider all options when making a purchase to ensure getting the desired model.

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  • Xteink X4: MagSafe Compact E-Reader for iPhones

    Xteink X4: MagSafe Compact E-Reader for iPhones

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xteink X4 is a compact e-reader priced at $69, featuring dimensions of 114 x 69 x 5.9 mm and weighing 74 grams.
    2. It uses an ESP32 instead of a typical SoC, comes with a 32 GB microSD card, and has WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities for easy content transfer.
    3. The 4.3-inch screen has a pixel density of 220 PPI but displays limited text, requiring frequent page turns; it supports various file formats including ePUB and JPG.
    4. The device has no touchscreen functionality, relying on side buttons for navigation.
    5. It offers convenience and portability for users on the go, though its small display may not suit everyone’s reading preferences.


    The Xteink X4 is a small e-reader priced at $69. This gadget can function on its own, but it can also be magnetically attached to a smartphone that is compatible. Its dimensions are 114 x 69 x 5.9 millimeters, and it weighs in at 74 grams. Instead of a typical System on Chip (SoC), it uses an ESP32, which is popular in the maker community. There’s a 32 GB microSD card included. With both WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, transferring content is a breeze. Although the 650 mAh battery is not very large, it can still last up to 14 days if you use it for one to three hours daily.

    Display and Usability

    The screen is 4.3 inches across the diagonal and offers a pixel density of 220 PPI. The Xteink X4 is marketed for various applications; however, due to its small display, only a limited amount of text can be shown at once. This means frequent page turns and line changes. Nonetheless, it’s also practical for displaying items like boarding passes for flights, membership cards, or even calendars. The device supports several file formats, including ePUB, text files, BMP, and JPG. Users should keep in mind that there is no touchscreen functionality, so the side buttons are crucial for navigating the device.

    Conclusion

    Xteink is a product that combines convenience and portability, making it suitable for those who are always on the go. The compact size and lightweight nature of the e-reader make it easy to carry around, and the ability to connect to a smartphone adds to its versatility. However, the limitations of its display may not cater to everyone’s reading preferences.

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  • Inkbook Solaris Color: New Android E-Reader with WiFi & Audiobooks

    Inkbook Solaris Color: New Android E-Reader with WiFi & Audiobooks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Features a 1,872 x 1,404 E Ink Kaleido display with lower resolution for color content (150 PPI).
    2. Powered by a four-core Cortex-A55 SoC with 2 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 32 GB internal storage.
    3. Runs on Android 11-based Inkbook OS with its own app store and sideloading options.
    4. Offers USB-C connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a headphone jack for audiobooks.
    5. Available for pre-order in four colors at approximately €164, shipping to select countries only.


    The Inkbook Solaris Color is a latest e-reader that features an E Ink Kaleido display with a resolution of 1,872 x 1,404— at least when it shows content in black and white. As is often the case, the pixel density drops from 300 to 150 PPI when colors are displayed, so it might be wise to stick to the black and white display for classic literature. However, the Inkbook Solaris Color should work quite well for viewing comics.

    Performance and Storage

    This e-reader is powered by a SoC with four Cortex-A55 cores and has access to 2 GB of LPDDR5 RAM. It comes with 32 GB of internal storage, although some of this space is already taken up by the Android 11-based Inkbook OS. It features its own app store, but users may also sideload apps if they wish. Moreover, the backlight can be adjusted not just in brightness but also in color temperature.

    Connectivity and Availability

    Users can access e-books through USB-C, and it also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. A headphone jack is included, making it possible to connect headphones for listening to audiobooks. The e-reader is currently available for pre-order in four colors (black, yellow, blue, and pink) at a price of approximately €164, which includes a free protective case. The Inkbook Solaris Color ships only to countries in the EU, the UK, Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand, with shipping costs calculated at checkout.

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  • Barnes & Noble Nook GlowLight 4 Launches New Color After 4 Years

    Barnes & Noble Nook GlowLight 4 Launches New Color After 4 Years

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nook GlowLight 4 has a new color option called Ocean Teal, following the previous Pearl Pink edition.
    2. The Ocean Teal edition features the same design and specifications as the original GlowLight 4, including a 6-inch E-Ink display and 32GB of storage.
    3. The price remains unchanged at $149.99.
    4. The e-reader includes physical buttons, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB-C connection, with a battery life of up to a month on a single charge.
    5. The Nook GlowLight 4 Ocean Teal Edition is available for pre-order, with a release date of November 20.


    It has been nearly four years since the Nook GlowLight 4 e-reader was launched by Barnes & Noble. While some people might think it’s about time for a new version, the American book store chain seems to disagree. Instead, they have chosen to introduce a new color for their competitor to the Kindle.

    New Color Release

    When the Nook GlowLight 4 first came out in December 2021, it was sold only in Black. In 2022, a limited edition Pearl Pink was introduced, featuring a white front and a pink back. This special variant quickly sold out within months of its launch, but Barnes & Noble brought it back in stock in 2023. Sadly, this color is no longer available for purchase.

    Now, the GlowLight 4 is being offered in a fresh color called Ocean Teal. This shade is somewhat reminiscent of the Metallic Jade found on the Amazon Kindle Scribe (2024), which can be found on Amazon for $449.99. The GlowLight 4 Ocean Teal Edition features the same color all around—front, sides, and back—unlike the previous Pearl Pink edition. Other than the new hue, every other detail remains unchanged, including the same price of $149.99 as the black variant.

    Display and Features

    The Nook GlowLight 4 is equipped with a 6-inch E-Ink display that delivers 300 ppi. Its screen is slightly recessed, in contrast to the GlowLight 4 Plus, which boasts a flush display. Thankfully, it comes with a screen protector that minimizes glare and is resistant to scratches and fingerprints.

    This e-reader includes physical buttons for turning pages, along with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB-C connection. The GlowLight 4 has 32GB of internal storage, but lacks a MicroSD card slot. The battery life is advertised to last up to a month on just one charge.

    Availability

    The Nook GlowLight 4 Ocean Teal Edition is now available for pre-order at the price of $149.99, and it is set to be released on November 20.

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  • Kobo Clara Colour Launches in White with Bigger Battery Capacity

    Kobo Clara Colour Launches in White with Bigger Battery Capacity

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Kobo Clara Colour is now available in white, in addition to the original black model.
    2. The new white variant features an upgraded battery capacity of 1,900mAh, compared to the black model’s 1,500mAh.
    3. Battery life remains around 42 days with specified usage conditions, despite the increased capacity.
    4. The white model is available for pre-order at $159.99, matching the price of the black version after a recent price increase.
    5. The device includes a 6-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 display, 16GB storage, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and an IPX8 water resistance rating.


    When Rakuten unveiled the Kobo Clara Colour in April 2024, the color e-reader was initially offered only in black. Now, the company has introduced a new shade, which comes with an enhanced battery capacity.

    New Color and Improved Battery

    The Kobo Clara Colour is now up for purchase in white, expanding the color choices for the 6-inch e-reader to two. However, it’s more than just a fresh coat of paint; the white variant also boasts a larger battery capacity. The original black model features a 1,500mAh battery, while the new white edition has been upgraded to a 1,900mAh battery.

    Battery Life Comparison

    Rakuten claims that battery life remains around 42 days with 30 minutes of reading daily, brightness at 30%, and both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth disabled. Nonetheless, there may be a noticeable improvement between the two models. Good E-Reader reports that Rakuten decided to enhance the battery due to a shortage of the smaller capacity batteries.

    Pricing and Availability

    The white color option will be available starting September 23, but it’s currently up for pre-order on Rakuten and Amazon for $159.99. This price matches the black version after a $10 hike from its initial launch price of $149.99 earlier this year. Still, it remains more affordable than Amazon’s Kindle Colorsoft, which costs $249.99.

    The Kobo Clara Colour features a 6-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 display with an adjustable front light, along with 16GB of storage and a dual-core 2.0GHz processor. In terms of connectivity, users receive dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB-C port. Additionally, it has an IPX8 water resistance rating, meaning it can handle immersion in water as well as minor spills.

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  • 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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