The Boox Palma 3 eReader now has pen support—and it’s not alone

Boox has revamped its eReader lineup ahead of the Picco. The company has introduced three new Android 16-based models, including a Palma 3 that upgrades its most iconic device as well as the Note Air6 C and the Note Mini C.

The signature model, the Palma 3, now supports the Boox InkSense Plus pen to either write notes or annotate eBooks. The 6.13-inch E Ink screen and its two-tone front light are familiar, but the body is now made from sturdier aluminum and fiberglass instead of plastic.

You can also expect 128GB of storage expandable with microSD cards, and a 16-megapixel camera to scan documents. A 3,950mAh battery promises “days” of reading, according to Boox. An eight-core, 2.9GHz processor and 6GB of RAM promise solid if unspectacular performance.

The Google Play Store is available from the start on all the new devices, so you can use eReader apps like Amazon Kindle or Libby as well as any app that works well with E Ink’s slow refresh rates.

Boox hasn’t outlined a release date, but the Palma 3 will be available “soon” in the U.S. at a $320 price. The InkSense Plus stylus sells for $46. While that pen is available separately, the new eReader sells for $60 less than the Palma 2 Pro — you’re still saving money versus the last generation.

The larger Boox eReaders: Note Air6 C and Note Mini C

Finally, a more portable Note

Boox’ new flagship, the Note Air6 C, has a large 10.3-inch, 4,096-color E Ink display with a new film that reportedly delivers a “smoother,” more paper-like feel when writing with the included Pen3. A faster eight-core 2.9GHz chip with 6GB of RAM drives voice transcription, AI text summaries, and scanning — this is designed for meetings.

The Note Air6 C also takes advantage of a new Dual Notes software feature to let you annotate two documents at once, which could help when comparing texts. An optional keyboard folio snaps on with pogo pins and can charge the Note’s 3,700mAh battery through USB-C.

The 8.52-inch Note Mini C is aimed at commuters and other travelers who want a color eReader, but need something they can read in a tightly-packed aircraft or train. You get an InkSight stylus, the same processor, and a magnetic folio case, but no keyboard and a smaller 3,150mAh power pack.

The Note Air6 C is available now starting at $580 by itself, and $657 with the keyboard folio. The Note Mini C is listed as coming “soon” for $550. Your choice really comes down to the size you need and the value of typing notes. The Picco isn’t expected until November, so you’ll have to be patient if you want a pocket eReader.

Leave a Comment