Boox Picco E-Reader Launches in November
▼ Summary
– Boox has revealed new details about its Picco e-reader, positioning it as a competitor to the Xteink X4.
– Unlike the Xteink device, the Picco lacks magnets but features a touchscreen and customizable physical page-turn buttons.
– The device relies on microSD storage and supports file transfers via USB-C and WiFi from a companion app.
– It runs a stripped-down Linux-based OS rather than Android, offering limited apps and reduced hackability compared to competitors.
– Key specifications like price, battery life, and Bluetooth support remain unknown until the expected November launch.
Boox Picco E-Reader Launches in November
The Boox Picco is set to enter the market this November, offering a distinct alternative to the recently hyped Xteink X4 e-reader. While Boox initially teased the device in July with minimal specifications, new details emerging from IFA have clarified its hardware approach and software limitations. Unlike its competitor, the Picco does not feature magnetic backing for phone attachment, focusing instead on a streamlined reading experience.
A key highlight of the device is its 3.97-inch touchscreen e-paper display. This feature represents a significant shift from the non-touch interface found on the X4 Pro. The Verge’s Andrew Liszewski called a “welcome upgrade” on the X4 Pro. In addition to the screen, the Picco includes physical page-turn buttons that users can program for different actions depending on whether they perform a short or long press. This tactile control offers a traditional reading feel that many enthusiasts prefer over gesture-based navigation.
Storage and connectivity represent another major departure from current market trends. The Picco lacks onboard storage entirely, requiring users to utilize a microSD card for their library. However, file management is more flexible than competitors’ offerings. Users can transfer books via USB-C, a port the Xteink devices lack, or wirelessly through a companion app using WiFi. This eliminates the need for manual card swapping for every new book.
Under the hood, the Picco runs a stripped-down, Linux-based operating system rather than Android. This choice allows for a lighter interface but limits extensibility. The device comes pre-loaded with utility apps such as a timer, a todo list, and a reading stats tracker. Because Boox is unlikely to open its firmware for customization like Xteink has done, the Picco may appeal more to casual readers who prioritize simplicity over deep technical control. It will be a less hackable and customizable device.
Several critical specifications remain undisclosed. Details regarding price, battery life, Bluetooth support, and audiobook playback capabilities are still pending. All these unanswered questions are expected to be resolved when the device officially launches in November.
(Source: The Verge)
