Hands-On: The Next Boox Palma Features Color E Ink and Cellular
▼ Summary
– Boox previewed its next Palma smartphone-sized e-reader at IFA 2025, though it wasn’t publicly displayed.
– The new Palma appears to feature a color E Ink screen and a 4G+ LTE cellular connection, suggesting smartphone functionality.
– Previous Palma versions had black-and-white screens and only Wi-Fi, limiting connectivity outside of hotspots.
– Boox was an early adopter of color E Ink technology, introducing color e-readers before competitors like Amazon and Kobo.
– The device could serve as a distraction-free smartphone replacement with better battery life, though social media browsing remains challenging on E Ink.
The upcoming Boox Palma is generating significant buzz with its potential integration of a color E Ink display and cellular connectivity, marking a notable evolution in the pocket-sized e-reader market. While not officially showcased at IFA 2025, early glimpses suggest this device could bridge the gap between dedicated e-readers and full-fledged smartphones.
Boox has a history of innovation in e-paper technology, having adopted color E Ink screens well ahead of competitors like Amazon and Kobo. Previous Palma models featured a 6.13-inch monochrome display and ran on Android, offering functionality that closely mimicked smartphones, complete with dual microphones and a rear camera. However, the absence of cellular support limited their usefulness outside Wi-Fi range.
This new iteration appears to address that limitation. A status bar visible during the preview indicated a 4G+ LTE connection, though specific details regarding SIM support, physical tray or eSIM, remain undisclosed. If implemented effectively, cellular capability could position the next Palma as a compelling alternative for users seeking reduced digital distractions or extended battery life, similar to recent devices like the Bigme Hibreak Pro.
It’s worth noting that a color screen, while impressive, may not be the most anticipated upgrade among existing Palma enthusiasts. Many have expressed greater interest in always-on connectivity, which would finally allow the device to function independently without tethering to a hotspot. Whether browsing or communication will feel seamless on an E Ink interface remains to be seen, but the combination of color and cellular could redefine what a compact e-reader can do.
(Source: The Verge)
