Onyx BOOX vs PocketBook

2022. Boox Tab8 tablet with improved E Ink display launched



Boox is set to introduce the Boox Tab 8, an 8-inch reading tablet available at this link. The tablet boasts a 7.8-inch E Ink display with a resolution of 1872 × 1404 and a pixel density of 300PPI. According to Boox, the Tab 8 achieves an impressive light transmittance of 93 percent, representing a 30 percent improvement. Additionally, luminous uniformity has increased by 13 percent, while touch sensitivity has seen a 30 percent enhancement. The device also offers adjustable cold and warm light support. Boox claims that these advancements result in the Tab 8 possessing the most exceptional display effect among all devices featuring an E Ink display. The accompanying stylus boasts a low latency of just 24.17ms, with a 30 percent reduction in response delay. Furthermore, the screen layout has been redesigned to position the pen 25 percent closer to the ink, while the overall display is 50 percent thinner. Boox asserts that these improvements contribute to a more realistic writing experience.


2022. Pocketbook to add support for AZW ebooks



Pocketbook has recently started incorporating support for the Amazon Kindle AZW ebook format. The Inkpad 3, a Pocketbook e-reader, became the first device to officially offer this functionality following a firmware update on July 20th. Additionally, the official Send to Pocketbook app, available on all Pocketbook e-readers, now allows users to directly send AZW and AZW3 books to their devices. The AZW format, developed by Amazon specifically for their Kindle e-readers, is commonly used for DRM-protected ebooks. It bears similarities to the Mobipocket PRC file format, which does not require DRM protection.


2022. PocketBook launched Era - 7-inch e-reader with 300 PPI



Pocketbook Era is an innovative e-reader that harnesses the cutting-edge E INK Carta 1200 e-paper display panel. This advanced technology brings a 15% increase in image contrast and a 20% improvement in touch screen response time. With its 7-inch diagonal screen, the Pocketbook Era strikes the perfect balance between portability and readability, allowing you to view more text on a single page compared to traditional 6-inch e-readers. Adapt to any lighting environment with ease, thanks to the SMARTlight function, which enables adjustment of brightness and color temperature for a comfortable reading experience. The Pocketbook Era boasts a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen display featuring E INK Carta 1200 technology, offering a resolution of 1264×1680 with a pixel density of 300 PPI. The screen is shielded by a flush, protective layer of glass, ensuring enhanced anti-scratch durability, and making it a reliable companion for even the most active usage. Additionally, this waterproof device is well-suited for reading in the bathroom or outdoor environments.


2021. Onyx Boox refreshed 3 its Android eReaders



Onyx has introduced three upgraded Boox models: the 13.3-inch Max Lumi2, and the 10.3-inch Note5 and Note Air2 models, all of which now run on Android 11 and boast various new software features. These new models feature minor hardware enhancements, such as increased RAM and storage space, as well as a faster and more efficient processor. In addition, they are accompanied by improved stylus pens, with enhancements made to the magnet that holds the stylus along the side. The devices now come with a new type of pre-installed writing film, akin to the Nova Air, which was released a couple of months ago, in order to enhance the screen feel. Onyx plans to release the 3.2 update for their previous generation models in November, typically incorporating most of the new software features; however, it is unlikely that the older models will receive an update to Android 11.


2021. Onyx Boox 3.1 update brings screen recording function



Onyx Boox has recently released a significant update for their previous generation e-readers and digital note-taking devices. This update can be obtained through the settings menu by searching for new firmware while connected to Wi-Fi. The update includes several impressive features, such as the ability to record the screen, new gesture controls, a completely revamped ebook software, and improved drawing capabilities. Notably, the update introduces a screen recording function, allowing recordings of up to 2 hours in duration. It also adds storage categories (with a total of 10 categories), customizable system contrast, location information (some apps require authorized location information, but the location function is initially disabled), and an option to enable Bluetooth automatically upon device startup (located in Settings/Power).


2021. Onyx Boox adds screen recording function



The latest firmware update (version 3.1) has been released by Onyx Boox for its e-readers, including Nova 3, Poke 3, Note 3, Note Air, and Max Lumi. This update introduces a range of exciting new features. One notable addition is the screen recording function, allowing users to record their activities for up to 2 hours. Additionally, users now have the capability to wirelessly share notes, pictures, and files with other devices such as phones and tablets. The update also includes expanded support for EPUB files on the Neoreader, particularly for image files. Users can now perform long presses on words to look them up in various dictionaries, as well as add links to internal documents or external websites within ebooks. On the note-taking front, there are new options for shapes, lines, and border styles, and users can also record audio notes. These enhancements are sure to impress users with their increased functionality and improved user experience.


2020. Pocketbook uveiled Basic 4 e-Reader



Pocketbook has given their entry-level e-reader, the Basic 4, a complete redesign, and it is set to be released at the end of this month. In contrast to previous models, this version features page turn buttons located at the bottom of the display, along with a vibrant and cheerful home button. The overall appearance of the device no longer resembles a budget e-reader, as Pocketbook has essentially revamped the entire industrial design. The Pocketbook Basic 4 sports a six-inch E INK Carta HD display with an expected resolution of 1024×758 and 212 PPI. Under the hood, it is equipped with a Freescale 1GZ processor, 256MB of RAM, and 8GB of internal storage, expandable via an SD card slot supporting up to an additional 32GB of storage. With dimensions of 161.3 × 108 × 8 mm and an incredibly lightweight construction weighing only 145g, the Basic 4 offers impressive portability.


2020. PocketBook e-readers get new bookstore



Pocketbook has recently released the highly anticipated firmware version 6.0 for its PocketBook InkPad 3 Pro and Pocketbook Touch HD 3 e-readers. With this update, users now have access to a brand new bookstore where they can purchase bestselling ebooks and audiobooks. The main menu and user interface have undergone a complete redesign, offering a refreshed look and feel. Additionally, a new music player has been introduced. These updated e-readers are also compatible with EPUB3 format. Notably, the redesigned main menu now includes a list of recommendations featuring selected books such as the latest novels and bestsellers. Furthermore, users have the ability to personalize their e-reader's Home Screen by adding application icons and enabling or disabling book recommendations, among other customization options.


2020. Onyx unveiled E-Ink smartphone


Onyx Boox has announced the upcoming release of a new E INK smartphone called the Onyx Boox Phone, set to debut later this year. This Android device provides users with access to the Google Play Store and features a 5.8-inch E Ink Carta HD display with a resolution of 300PPI. The phone includes a front-lit display and a color temperature system for enhanced reading experiences. Powered by an octa-core processor, the exact specifications regarding the RAM and internal storage have not been disclosed yet. The device incorporates a USB-C port and offers a fingerprint reader for secure locking and unlocking. Additionally, it boasts dual microphones to ensure excellent call quality, a dual camera system on the back, and two speakers for enjoying music, audiobooks, or podcasts. Connectivity options include WiFi, 4G/LTE, and Bluetooth.


2020. Onyx Boox now allows to edit ebooks



Onyx Boox has recently unveiled a firmware update for various models including MAX 2, MAX2 Pro, Note Pro, Note Lite, Note Plus, Note S, Nova Pro, Nova, and Poke Pro. This update brings a significant enhancement allowing users to draw on ebooks in Mobi, PDF, HTML, TXT, Epub, Docx, AZW3, and RTF formats. Onyx treats ebooks as PDF files, enabling users to make underlines and jot down notes. Additionally, the update introduces the option to revert the Note toolbars to the previous version, positioning the toolbar on the left side without obstructing the writing area. The functionality of long-pressing on app icons for optimization has been reinstated, and protected files now require a password for deletion, renaming, and other file operations.


2018. Onyx updated UI on all its e-readers


Onyx has recently unveiled firmware 2.0 for its e-reading devices. This update brings a range of innovative enhancements, including a new user interface, an expanded book store, a 30% increase in speed when opening PDF files, improved management of two-page spreads, the ability to search and edit handwritten notes, and support for Bluetooth keyboard input on notes. The update also includes optimizations for app management and introduces several new features for stylus usage, such as the ability to select, move, rotate, duplicate, resize, and remove handwritten notes and drawings. Additionally, a new recognition feature has been added, enabling users to search within their handwritten notes.


2018. Onyx Boox Note+ features scratch resistant screen



Onyx Boox has introduced their latest e-reader, the Boox Note+. This device boasts a 10.3-inch flexible E-ink Carta display, featuring a scratch-resistant glass-based layer and an electromagnetic handwriting (WACOM electromagnetic) layer for stylus compatibility. The inclusion of a glass-based screen allows users to exert more pressure while taking notes without worrying about scratches. Powered by Android 6.0, the e-reader addresses the Google Play issue that affected previous models through a new firmware update. Priced $30 higher than the original Note, the Note+ offers a flush screen, bezel, and a glass-based display, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking these features. Currently, the Note+ is available exclusively on the Onyx website in China, with no confirmation regarding an international release.


2017. Pocketbook launched Basic Lux and Basic 3 models



Pocketbook has recently unveiled two upcoming e-readers that are scheduled to be shipped in the coming months. The Basic Lux and Basic 3 models are both entry-level devices, offering competitive alternatives to the Kindle Basic and Kobo Touch 2.0. The PocketBook Basic 3 is an entry-level e-reader equipped with a 6-inch E Ink screen boasting a resolution of 800×600 pixels, along with an integrated Wi-Fi module. On the other hand, the Pocketbook Basic Lux features a 6-inch E-Ink Carta display with a resolution of 1024×768 pixels, providing a pixel density of 212 PPI. Notably, it also includes a front-lit display for reading in low-light conditions and physical page turn buttons, providing an alternative to relying solely on the touchscreen for navigation.


2017. Pocketbook announced Aqua 2 e-Reader



Pocketbook has introduced their second generation waterproof e-reader, the Aqua 2, priced at $141. This advanced device showcases a six-inch E-Ink Carta display boasting a resolution of 1024×768 with 212 PPI. With 8GB of internal storage, it can accommodate an extensive collection of e-books. Additionally, it includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to enjoy audiobooks. The Aqua 2 comes with a built-in front-light for reading in low-light conditions and possesses IP57 standard waterproof and dustproof capabilities. Utilizing WIFI, it enables internet connectivity. E-books can be conveniently sent directly to the device via the Dropbox connection and the Send-to-PocketBook service. Furthermore, for those reading foreign-language e-books, the Aqua 2 comes equipped with a range of preinstalled Abbyy-Lingvo dictionaries.


2017. Onyx created Boox Typerwriter



Onyx has unveiled its latest offering for authors, the Boox Typewriter, a versatile two-in-one laptop featuring an E Ink display. With a detachable keyboard and stylus support, the device allows users to conveniently take notes and make highlights in tablet mode. However, the fate of the Onyx Typewriter remains uncertain as the company gauges consumer interest in this unique product. Sporting a 9.7-inch capacitive touchscreen display, running on the Android operating system, and equipped with Bluetooth and wireless internet connectivity, the Typewriter aims to compete with other e Ink enabled typewriters like the Freewrite. Notably, it boasts an impressive battery life of 25 days during active usage and around 50 days in standby mode.


2016. Onyx Boox Kepler Pro e-Reader is now available



The newly introduced Onyx Boox Kepler Pro showcases a 6-inch capacitive touchscreen display equipped with an e-Ink Carta screen. With a resolution of 1442 x 1072 and 300 PPI, it competes favorably with mainstream e-readers currently available in the market. Furthermore, the device features a front-lit display, allowing for comfortable reading in low-light conditions. Running on Android 4.04, the Kepler Pro grants users the flexibility to install their preferred applications, although it is unclear whether Google Play is included. An SD card slot is provided, offering an additional 32GB of storage capacity. The e-reader supports wireless internet access and Bluetooth connectivity. The Onyx Boox Kepler Pro is priced at $232.87.


2016. Onyx Boox released C67ML e-Reader



Onyx Boox has recently introduced the C67ML, a new e-reader with an enhanced resolution. This model features an e-Ink Carta 2 screen with a resolution of 1148×1072 and an impressive 300 PPI, accompanied by a built-in front-light. As part of the 3rd generation of the C6 series, the C67ML is the first Onyx Boox e-reader to incorporate the new Carta 2 display technology. Under the hood, it houses a Cortex-A9 dual-core 1GHz processor, 512 MB of RAM, and 8 GB of internal memory, expandable up to 32 GB via a MicroSD card. Additionally, it includes a 3.5mm headphone jack for audiobook and music playback. Running on Android 4.2, this device allows users to install their preferred applications. The C67ML e-reader is available for purchase on Banggood at a price of $200 US.


2016. Onyx Boox Just Released 9.7 inch N96 and N96ML e-Readers



Onyx Boox has discreetly introduced updated models of their M96 Universe e-reader, namely the N96 and N96ML. The key distinction between these devices lies in their touch functionality, with one featuring dual touch (capacitive + electromagnetic) and the other utilizing an electromagnetic touchscreen along with a front light. These e-readers are particularly appealing to those seeking a larger screen reading experience. However, it's worth noting that both models have relatively modest resolutions and employ an outdated version of e-ink technology. Despite the resolution limitations, the market offers few options for 9.7-inch e-readers that support the installation of custom apps, which could prove beneficial for individuals with a vast collection of maps, documents, or PDF files.