China sees rise in E Ink gadgets to combat smartphone addiction

A new trend is emerging in China where small E Ink (electronic paper) devices are gaining popularity as tools to combat smartphone addiction. Rather than replacing smartphones, these gadgets are being redefined as lightweight digital stationery or specialized tools for reading and note-taking that allow users to disconnect from the constant stream of notifications, social media, and short videos.

Various innovative products are appearing on Chinese e-commerce platforms like Taobao. These include ultra-small 2.9-inch devices that function as clocks, calendars, or weather displays, as well as 4-inch mini-readers designed to attach to the back of a smartphone via magnets. Some larger 6-inch models integrate AI summarization, transcription, and recording capabilities.

The shift follows Amazon Kindle's termination of its e-book services in mainland China in 2024. In the vacuum, Chinese manufacturers such as iFLYTEK, BOOX, and Hanvon have released multifunctional E Ink terminals. These devices prioritize portability and the ability to perform specific tasks without the distractions inherent in modern smartphones.