Boox refreshes Go 6 e-reader with stylus support for note-taking

Boox has unveiled an updated version of its popular Go 6 e-reader, introducing stylus support for handwritten notes and annotations. The latest model builds on the existing compact e-reader design while adding new productivity features aimed at readers who want to combine reading and note-taking in a single device.

The new Go 6 is compatible with the company’s InkSense Plus stylus, allowing users to write directly on the device. The e-reader is priced at US$200, while the stylus is sold separately for around US$45, bringing the total cost of the package to approximately US$245.

Pre-orders are now available, with shipping scheduled to begin on 17 June.

New note-taking features expand functionality

The addition of stylus support marks one of the most significant upgrades to the Go 6 range. Boox has also included a built-in note-taking application that works alongside the InkSense Plus stylus, enabling users to interact with digital books in new ways.

According to the company, readers can use the stylus to “mark up books, underline passages and capture handwritten notes and to-do lists.” This functionality is designed to appeal to students, professionals and avid readers who prefer making notes while reading.

The refreshed model is available in four new colour options, giving buyers more choice than previous versions. While the device retains its compact 6-inch form factor, the added writing capabilities help position it as more than a traditional e-reader.

The update reflects a growing trend among e-reader manufacturers to incorporate productivity features into reading devices. By enabling handwritten annotations and note-taking, companies are attempting to bridge the gap between dedicated e-readers and larger digital tablets.

Hardware upgrades improve performance

Alongside the new writing features, Boox has introduced several hardware improvements. The updated Go 6 now includes 3GB of RAM, an increase that is expected to provide smoother navigation and faster overall performance.

The device features a 6-inch monochrome E Ink display with a 300 pixels per inch resolution. This high-resolution screen is designed to deliver sharp text for reading books, documents and other written content.

Users will also benefit from adjustable front lighting, which allows the screen brightness and colour temperature to be tailored to different environments. This feature can make reading more comfortable during both daytime and nighttime use.

Storage remains generous for an e-reader of this size, with 32GB of built-in capacity. The inclusion of a microSD card slot provides an option to expand storage, which may be useful for readers with extensive digital libraries.

The Go 6 continues to prioritise portability. The device maintains a slim profile and weighs slightly more than five ounces, making it easy to carry in a bag or hold for extended reading sessions.

Android support offers flexibility with limitations

Like several other Boox products, the new Go 6 runs on Android. This gives users access to the Google Play Store and allows them to install a wide variety of reading, productivity and content applications.

The Android platform offers flexibility not commonly found on dedicated e-readers. Readers can access multiple ebook services, note-taking tools and other apps without being restricted to a single ecosystem.

However, the benefits of Android on an E Ink device come with certain limitations. E Ink displays typically have lower refresh rates than traditional tablet screens, which can make some applications feel less responsive. Apps designed for fast animations or frequent scrolling may not perform as smoothly as they would on a standard smartphone or tablet.

As a result, the user experience can vary depending on the software being used. Applications focused on reading, writing, and simple productivity tasks generally work well, while more demanding apps may be less suited to the technology.

Battery life remains one of the key advantages of E Ink devices. Boox says the Go 6 can last several days on a single charge during regular use, a characteristic shared by most modern e-readers.

The launch follows Boox’s broader strategy of integrating stylus functionality across its product range. The company previously introduced handwriting support on the Go 7 E Ink tablet, which received the feature last year. With the updated Go 6, Boox is now bringing similar capabilities to a smaller and more portable reading device.