Boox Picco and TCL P80 Ultra lead emerging compact reading device market

The market for compact e-readers and reading-focused mobile devices is seeing new entries and specialized hardware. The Boox Picco has emerged as a highly portable option priced around $100, though competitors like the Xteink X4 Pro offer larger 4.3-inch displays for those seeking a balance between pocketability and reading comfort.

In a different approach to the category, the TCL P80 Ultra NXTPAPER integrates e-ink-like functionality directly into a smartphone. Using specialized hardware rather than a simple software filter, the device features a button that allows the AMOLED matte screen to switch between black-and-white and color modes, mimicking an e-reader experience. This device is currently featured in Amazon Prime deals.