BOOX has launched the Picco, a 3.97-inch ePaper reader created specifically for short reading sessions during everyday pockets of downtime. As the inaugural release under the brand’s new Tiles lifestyle collection, the device establishes a standalone hardware category separate from the brand’s established line of larger BOOX tablets.
Tipping the scales at a mere 58g with dimensions similar to an ordinary playing card, the hardware pairs an ultra-compact monochrome ePaper display with both a responsive touchscreen and physical page-turn buttons. Portability is enhanced through a custom magnetic case that attaches directly onto the rear of a smartphone, offering an effortless way to carry both devices together throughout the day.
A small screen with adjustable lighting
At the heart of the reading experience is a 235 PPI monochrome ePaper panel that relies on anti-aliasing to smooth the contours of text for crisp reading. Integrated front lights allow readers to tailor both brightness levels and colour temperature to suit different environments, from midday sun to late-night reading. A customisable physical Function Switch complements this setup, providing instant control over the front lighting or quickly engaging dark reading mode.
Page navigation remains intuitive, with readers able to cycle through titles using either the physical buttons or the touchscreen. An integrated four-way rotation feature also lets the screen reorient smoothly to match any holding angle.
The software environment gives readers detailed command over their reading materials, providing built-in settings to modify line spacing, margins, and font choices to personal taste. File compatibility is broad, allowing the device to open and render a wide selection of document formats smoothly. To store these libraries, the Picco comes bundled with a 16GB microSD card and includes a hardware slot capable of handling memory card sizes up to 2TB.
Adding fresh literature to the reader requires minimal effort. Users can load books and documents through the BOOX Tiles app, a standard web browser, or a direct wired USB-C link.
Picco also includes basic utility tools
When left on standby, the Picco doubles as an ambient visual accessory with support for custom screensavers featuring quotes, artwork, or personal photographs. The accompanying magnetic case further expands where the hardware can rest, allowing owners to securely affix the reader to domestic metal surfaces such as a fridge.
A clean, distraction-free environment underpins the daily user experience. BOOX describes the device as running a minimalist operating system that deliberately strips back visual clutter to keep interactions tidy and focused. Alongside its reading capabilities, the system provides several built-in productivity tools, incorporating dedicated Todo, Pomodoro, and Countdown applications for maintaining task lists, managing work intervals, and running timed countdowns.
Pre-orders are currently open through the official BOOX Shop. Retail pricing for the card-sized device starts at US$99.99.
