Boox has unveiled the Palma 3, a compact Android ereader for users who want a phone-sized reading device with app access and extra features. The new model follows the Boox Palma 2 and introduces several changes, including a more premium construction and a newer version of Android.
The Palma 3 retains the distinctive smartphone-style form factor of the Palma range while adding an anodised aluminium frame and textured fibreglass rear panel. The changes give the device a more upmarket finish than the predominantly plastic construction used on its predecessor.
The software has also received a significant update. The Palma 3 launches with Android 16, compared with Android 13 on the Palma 2 and Android 15 on the Palma 2 Pro. The newer operating system could extend app compatibility and provide more up-to-date security features, although Boox’s long-term software support remains an important consideration for buyers.
New design and Android 16
The move to Android 16 is one of the more notable changes for the Palma 3. E-readers running Android do not always receive major operating system upgrades, so the version included at launch can significantly affect how long a device remains compatible with newer applications.
The Palma 3 also gains active stylus support. Users can pair the device with the Boox InkSense Plus stylus, adding another way to interact with the screen. The feature could be useful for annotating documents or taking notes, although the Palma 3’s relatively small display may limit how practical extensive handwriting is compared with larger Boox tablets.
Boox has also retained a camera, with the Palma 3 featuring a 16MP rear camera. This differs from the ViWoods AiPaper Reader, which does not include a camera or active stylus support. While a camera may not be essential for an ereader, it could be useful for scanning documents or capturing information while travelling.
The combination of Android 16, stylus support, a camera and a redesigned exterior gives the Palma 3 several additions beyond the basic reading experience. However, much of the internal hardware remains familiar to existing Palma users.
Familiar hardware with a heavier body
The Palma 3 features a 6.13-inch E Ink display with a resolution of 824 x 1648 pixels and a pixel density of 300 pixels per inch. The touchscreen is paired with a front light that supports warm and cool colour tones, letting users adjust the display for different lighting conditions.
Inside, the device has 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. A microSD card slot provides additional storage, while a 3,950mAh battery powers the device. Other features include USB-C connectivity, a fingerprint sensor, a speaker and microphones.
Despite measuring slightly less than its predecessor at 159 x 78 x 7.8mm, the Palma 3 is considerably heavier. It weighs 195g, making it 25g heavier than the Palma 2. That is also substantially more than the 138g ViWoods AiPaper Reader, while the Palma 2 Pro weighs 170g.
The extra weight appears partly linked to the move toward more premium materials. The aluminium frame and fibreglass back may make the Palma 3 feel more substantial . Still, the increased weight could matter to people who specifically choose a compact ereader because they want something easy to carry and hold for long reading sessions.
The hardware also means the Palma 3 is not necessarily a straightforward upgrade for every existing Palma owner. The Palma 2 Pro, for example, has a colour display and 8GB of RAM, giving it advantages in areas where the newer model does not necessarily improve on its predecessor.
Pricing and availability
Boox has set the Palma 3’s standard price at US$339.99, which is approximately £250 or AU$475 based on the supplied conversions. A launch discount reduces the price to US$319.99, equivalent to roughly £235 or AU$450.
The pricing places the Palma 3 below the Palma 2 Pro, which has been listed at US$399.99, £379.99 and AU$679. The ViWoods AiPaper Reader is also priced lower, retailing for US$279, £254.99 or AU$399.12. These differences give buyers several options depending on whether they prioritise price, weight, software or additional hardware features.
Pricing is not yet confirmed for every market. The older Palma 2 has also been discontinued. Meanwhile, the Palma 2 Pro remains the higher-end option in the current range, particularly for users who want a colour display and more memory.
The Palma 3 is not yet available to purchase. Boox currently lists the device as coming soon, so potential buyers will need to wait for the company to provide more information on its release date and availability in individual markets.
