Boox teases the Picco, a 3.97-inch monochrome e-paper ereader with front light and microSD expansion, billed as the first in a new e-paper form-factor category; weight, battery life, price, and release date are still undisclosed, but the company promises an accessible price point.
Amazon will discontinue software support for Kindle devices released in 2012 or earlier starting May 20, 2026, meaning owners can read titles already on the device but cannot purchase, borrow, or download new books after that date; deregistering or factory resetting will render the device unusable. Affected models include Kindle 1st/2nd Gen, Kindle DX/DX Graphite, Kindle Keyboard, Kindle 4, Kindle 5, Kindle Touch, and the first Paperwhite. The policy underscores planned obsolescence of aging hardware, with no explicit reason given, and readers may seek alternatives or newer devices to continue seamless access to content.
Amazon will sunset software support for Kindle and Kindle Fire devices released in 2012 or earlier on May 20, ending the ability to download new content from the Kindle Store (existing titles remain readable; Send to Kindle and Libby/OverDrive integrations will stop). Amazon is offering a 20% discount toward a new Kindle plus a $20 e-book credit valid through June 20. Affected models include several 2011–2012 Kindles and Fire tablets. Options include upgrading to the newer Kindle (2024) or Kobo Clara BW, or trading in old devices through Amazon’s program (values may be low). Some users can sideload DRM-free titles, but this isn’t ideal. Security/maintenance costs and e-waste concerns accompany the sunset, which affects a subset of users (~less than 3%).
The Xteink X4 is a pocket-sized ESP32-powered e-reader priced around $50–$70 that trims features (no touchscreen, no backlight) but thrives on a passionate open-hardware community. Its CrossPoint Reader firmware lets Calibre syncing, Wi‑Fi transfers, and endless tinkering, making a cheap device surprisingly capable for hackers and readers alike.
The DuRobo Krono is a smartphone-sized ePaper tablet that serves as a distraction-free e-reader and productivity device, effectively replacing a Kindle for travel with added features like an AI assistant, note-taking, and a color-adjustable display, available for preorder at $280 with shipping in late January.
Amazon announced the third generation of Kindle Scribes, including a new model with a color screen, lighter design, and AI-powered note summarization features. The lineup features three models aimed at professionals and students, with the top-tier Colorsoft model offering a large, color display, long battery life, and cloud integration, making it ideal for viewing documents and magazines. The new devices also include an improved stylus and user interface, emphasizing distraction-free reading and note-taking. The most expensive model is set to launch later this year, with an entry-level version arriving early next year.
Amazon has introduced a more affordable version of its Kindle Colorsoft, priced at $250 with 16GB of storage, slightly cheaper than the original, but with some features like auto-adjusting light and wireless charging removed. The new model still offers a 7-inch color E Ink display, long battery life, and is available alongside a kids' version with additional features and parental controls.
The Boox Palma 2, a smartphone-sized e-reader running Android 13 with a 6.13-inch ePaper display, is available for a record low price of $269.99 during Prime Day, offering features like 128GB storage, Bluetooth, a 16MP camera, and access to the Google Play Store, making it a compact and versatile device for reading and app use.
The latest Kindle Scribe eReader is on sale for a record-low price of $260 during Prime Day, offering a 16GB model with note-taking capabilities, a large 10.2-inch screen, and new software features, making it a versatile device for reading and note-taking, though its high price remains a consideration.
The Amazon Kindle Scribe is on sale for a record-low $260 during Prime Day, offering a 16GB eReader and note-taking device with new features like a fountain pen and AI tools, though its high price remains a consideration.
The Amazon Kindle Scribe is on sale for $260 during Prime Day, a $140 discount on the 16GB model, making it a record-low price. It combines eReader and note-taking tablet features, with improvements like new brush types and AI tools, but remains pricey for some users.
Amazon's revamped Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition offers a luxurious reading experience with features like a larger screen, faster processor, and wireless charging for $200. While it provides a premium feel with crisp text and a warm light, the standard Kindle at $110 remains a solid, no-frills option for basic reading needs. The decision between models depends on whether the enhanced features justify the price difference for the user.
Amazon's Kindle Scribe, an e-reader designed for easy highlighting and annotating, is currently on sale for $269.99, down from its original price of $339.99, and includes three months of free Kindle Unlimited. This discount is one of the lowest prices seen for the device, comparable to Black Friday deals. The Kindle Scribe features a large 10.2-inch screen, weeks of battery life, and cloud syncing capabilities, although it lacks waterproofing and physical page turn buttons. Despite some limitations, it is considered one of the best e-readers on the market and is more affordable than competitors like the reMarkable 2.