Boox’s compact Picco e-reader set to launch in November

Boox has been hinting at the Picco, its version of the popular Xteink X4 e-reader, since July, but details have been scarce. Recent updates from IFA have shed some light on the device, though the price remains a mystery. Unlike the Xteink models, the Picco won’t feature magnets for attaching to a phone. However, it does come with a 3.97-inch touchscreen e-paper display, which has been described as a “welcome upgrade” compared to the X4 Pro. The device includes physical page-turn buttons that can be customized for different actions based on short or long presses.

Interestingly, the Picco lacks onboard storage and relies solely on a microSD card for book storage. Users can add files to the card or transfer reading materials directly via USB-C, a feature absent in the Xteink devices, and even over WiFi using a companion app.

Instead of running Android like Boox’s other offerings, the Picco will operate on a simplified, Linux-based OS. It will come with a few extra apps, including a timer, a to-do list, and a reading stats tracker. However, it seems unlikely that Boox will provide the same level of firmware openness as Xteink, which may limit customization options.

There are still several unanswered questions, such as the price, battery life, Bluetooth capabilities, and whether it will support audiobook playback. More information is expected to be revealed in November, coinciding with its anticipated launch.