Boox Confirms Development of New Picco E-Reader
Boox has officially confirmed to The Verge that the Picco, a new device in a "Tile" lineup, is currently in development. The company has provided a few key details, but many specifics remain unannounced.
The Picco will feature a 3.97-inch front-lit black-and-white e-paper display and an SD card slot for expandable storage.
Key Features and Positioning
The Picco is being designed as a compact and affordable alternative to other mini e-readers.
- Display & Hardware: It will boast a 3.97-inch front-lit e-paper screen, setting it apart from many modern backlit devices. An SD card slot will allow users to expand the internal storage.
- Price Point: Boox has stated that the Picco will have an "accessible price point," though no specific price or release date has been shared. This positions it directly against competitors like the Xteink X4 Pro ($99).
- User Interface: According to Good E-Reader, the Picco will likely utilize a minimal, tiled UI, limiting it to basic apps such as Neoreader, a music player, and a podcast player.
- Input Method: It remains unconfirmed whether the device will use physical buttons, a touchscreen, or a combination of both.
Key Questions Remain
Several crucial details about the Picco have not yet been confirmed by Boox.
- Magnetic Attachment: It is unclear if the Picco will include a MagSafe-like magnetic attachment for phones, a key feature found in competing Xteink devices.
- Core Identity: The input method (buttons vs. touch) is still unknown.
It is important to note that the Picco is distinct from the Android-powered Boox Palma. The Picco represents a new, likely more focused, direction for the company with its Tile lineup.