The e-reader market is experiencing a true miniature revolution. More and more users are looking for devices that fit in their pocket and allow for distraction-free reading, and brands have been quick to respond. The latest to join this trend is Onyx Boox, which has just unveiled the first details of its new model: the Boox Picco, an e-reader measuring only 3,97 inches that promises to compete directly with the popular devices from Xteink.
According to information provided by the company to several specialized media outlets, the Picco will be the first device in a new range called Boox Tile, focused on ultra-compact formats. Although not all specifications have been confirmed yet, promotional images already show a white design with flat bezels and a slightly wider bottom frame, very similar to that of a compact smartphone. The screen is monochrome and features front lighting , allowing for comfortable reading both day and night.
Technical characteristics and storage
The Boox Picco features a 3,97-inch black and white E Ink display, without color. While the exact resolution hasn't been revealed, it's expected to offer sufficient pixel density for crisp reading at this size. One of its most notable advantages is the inclusion of a microSD card slot , allowing users to expand internal storage and carry thousands of books without worrying about space. Furthermore, initial images suggest the device includes physical page-turn buttons, a feature highly valued by avid readers.
Direct competitor to Xteink
The Boox Picco's main rival is undoubtedly the Xteink X4 Pro, a 4,3-inch e-reader already on sale for $99. Both devices prioritize portability and a low price, but there are notable differences. The X4 Pro includes a touchscreen and magnetic charging , while the Picco, to keep costs down, might forgo a touchscreen and opt for a closed, simplified operating system. According to sources like Good e-Reader and Liliputing, the Picco will likely be priced between $99 and $129, making it a very viable alternative.
Onyx Boox already has experience in the compact e-reader segment with the Palma 2, but its price of $269,99 places it in a higher category. With the Picco, the brand aims to reach a wider audience that doesn't need all the features of a full-fledged Android device, but rather a simple, lightweight device focused exclusively on reading.
What operating system and ecosystem does it offer?
One of the biggest unknowns is whether the Boox Picco will run Android or its own operating system. Rumors suggest that, to reduce costs, Onyx might opt ​​for a tile-based user interface with fixed applications: the Neoreader e-reader, a music player, and a podcast manager. This would limit the installation of third-party apps but guarantee a distraction-free experience and minimal battery consumption. If the user prefers a more open ecosystem, they can always turn to the Palma 2 or the Boox Go 6 Gen 2.
However, some outlets like Mashable point out that if the Picco had access to Google Play, it could download apps like Kindle, Kobo, or Libby, making it a much more versatile e-reader. For now, Onyx has neither confirmed nor denied this possibility , so we'll have to wait for the official announcement to find out for sure.
Availability and price
Onyx Boox has confirmed that the Picco will launch "soon" and that its price will be "affordable." Although there's no specific date, the appearance of promotional images and leaked specifications indicate that the official announcement could come in the next few weeks. The starting price is expected to be around $99-$129 , which would place it in the same price range as the Xteink X4 Pro and make it a very attractive option for those looking for an ultralight and affordable e-reader.
In short, the Boox Picco arrives to fill a gap that until now only Xteink exploited: that of pocket-sized e-readers at a very competitive price. With its 3,97-inch screen, front light, microSD slot, and minimalist design, it promises to be the ideal companion for those spare moments on public transport or in the supermarket queue. The big question is whether Onyx will manage to maintain the reading quality that characterizes its devices in such a small format and at such a low cost. We'll have the answer very soon, when the Picco officially hits the market.