Link: This tiny magnetic e-reader sticks to the back of your iPhone

Xteink, a Chinese company, has introduced the X4 e-reader, a compact device featuring a 4.3-inch E Ink screen. Its small size makes it more portable than the smallest Kindle or Kobo.

The X4 can be magnetically attached to smartphones like iPhones or Pixel 10, using either Qi2 or Apple’s MagSafe technology. For phones without this tech, Xteink provides magnetic stick-on rings.

At a price of $69, the X4 is more affordable than its competitors, though it offers a lower screen resolution of 220ppi compared to the typical 300ppi in other modern e-readers. This results in less sharp text display.

The e-reader does not have a built-in light, necessitating external lighting for night reading, but this allows its 650mAh battery to last up to 14 days based on 1-3 hours of daily usage. However, the X4 can only open DRM-free EPUB and TXT files, which must be sideloaded either via a microSD card or over Wi-Fi.

Unlike many newer models, this device does not have a touchscreen but features dedicated page turn buttons. Users also have the option to install custom fonts beyond the two provided.

Ultimately, while the X4 offers useful features like long battery life and customizable fonts, its limited ebook compatibility and lower screen quality are significant trade-offs. #

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