In recent months, the market has seen a growing trend of compact e-readers, particularly those designed to attach magnetically to smartphones. These devices offer a distinct advantage by providing a distraction-free reading experience, allowing users to disengage from the high-resolution screens of their phones. A key player in the e-reader industry, BOOX (officially Onyx BOOX), is now entering this niche with its "Tiles" series. The first offering, the BOOX Picco, was initially teased in July, officially unveiled at IFA 2026, and is currently open for pre-orders.
BOOX Unveils Ultra-Portable Picco E-Reader: Pre-Orders Now Live
On September 28, 2026, BOOX, a prominent name in the e-reader sector, officially announced the commencement of pre-orders for its smallest e-reader to date, the BOOX Picco. This groundbreaking device, first previewed in July and showcased at IFA 2026, marks BOOX's entry into the ultra-compact e-reader market with its innovative "Tiles" series.
The Picco distinguishes itself with a remarkably small footprint, roughly the size of a credit card, and features a 3.97-inch ePaper touch display. This screen boasts a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, delivering crisp text ideal for an immersive reading experience. Reflecting BOOX's commitment to user comfort, the device includes adjustable frontlight warmth, catering to comfortable reading in diverse lighting conditions, including nighttime.
While the BOOX Picco incorporates both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, it is primarily optimized for reading, diverging from the more versatile functionalities of its larger counterparts. It operates on a custom interface rather than Android, providing a streamlined experience with a selection of practical applications such as a To-do list, a countdown timer, and a Pomodoro timer. While there's no immediate mention of future app installation capabilities, users can personalize their device with custom wallpapers.
For content transfer, the Picco offers flexibility, supporting both USB-C connections and microSD cards. Each unit comes bundled with a 16GB microSD card, and users have the option to expand the storage significantly, up to an impressive 2TB. Weighing in at a mere 58 grams, the device is designed for ultimate portability and includes a magnetic case that allows it to securely attach to the back of smartphones or other magnetic surfaces. Powering this compact device is a 920mAh battery, engineered to provide several days, if not weeks, of usage on a single charge.
The BOOX Picco is currently available for pre-order on BOOX’s official website at a price of $99.99. Shipping is slated to begin around the end of October, with deliveries anticipated to reach customers by early November, depending on order volume and regional logistics.
The launch of the BOOX Picco signifies a fascinating evolution in the e-reader market. Its ultra-compact design and dedicated reading interface highlight a clear move towards specialized, distraction-free devices. In an era where digital overload is a constant concern, the Picco offers a refreshing alternative, encouraging users to step away from the multi-functional complexities of smartphones and embrace the simple, focused pleasure of reading. This device could be a game-changer for commuters, minimalists, and anyone seeking a digital detox without abandoning their literary pursuits. Its affordability and impressive storage expansion further enhance its appeal, making high-quality, portable reading accessible to a wider audience.
