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Pocket-Sized E-Reader Attaches to Your Phone
5 Dec
Summary
- Xteink's X4 is a 4.3-inch E Ink reader attaching magnetically to phones.
- Priced at $69, it offers basic features without a built-in light.
- Supports only DRM-free EPUB and TXT files, sideloaded via microSD or Wi-Fi.
A new compact e-reader, the Xteink X4, has been launched, featuring a 4.3-inch E Ink screen designed for ultimate portability. This device can magnetically attach to the back of smartphones supporting Qi2 or MagSafe charging, similar to a wireless power bank, with included magnetic rings for non-compatible devices. Its low $69 price point makes it an attractive budget option.
However, the X4 comes with notable trade-offs. Its E Ink screen resolution is capped at 220ppi, lacking the sharpness of higher-end models, and it does not have a built-in backlight, requiring external light for nighttime reading. Despite these limitations, the absence of a backlight contributes to an impressive battery life of up to 14 days with moderate daily use.
Functionality is also restricted, as the X4 cannot access major ebook stores like Amazon or Kobo. It exclusively reads DRM-free books and documents in EPUB and TXT formats, which must be manually transferred. Users can sideload content via a microSD card or wirelessly by connecting to the X4 over Wi-Fi. The device foregoes a touchscreen, opting instead for dedicated page-turn buttons.
