Pocket-sized E Ink devices have quickly become a favorite alternative for readers seeking distraction-free digital reading without sacrificing app versatility. Onyx Boox is doubling down on this phone-like form factor with the new Boox Palma 3, introducing structural and functional upgrades while dropping the entry price to $320.
The new model replaces the previous generation's textured plastic casing with an anodized aluminum frame, giving the compact reader a significantly sturdier, more premium feel in hand. Despite the lower price point compared to its predecessor, the Palma 3 adds active stylus support, expanded storage options, and runs directly on Android 16 with full access to the Google Play Store.
Refined Aluminum Hardware and Precision Stylus Support
At the core of the Boox Palma 3 is a 6.13-inch E Ink Carta 1200 display with a resolution of 824 x 1648 pixels. The screen provides paper-like contrast, ideal for reading long articles, digital books, and documents under direct sunlight without eye strain. The transition to an anodized aluminum frame gives the pocket chassis a far sturdier structure, addressing durability concerns associated with previous plastic bodies.
A notable functional addition is active stylus support, enabling users to annotate documents, jot down quick notes, or sketch directly on the screen. Boox offers the optional InkSense Plus stylus separately for $46. This active digitizer compatibility turns the pocket reader into a compact digital notebook, bridging the gap between small pocket e-readers and larger digital notepads.
Android 16 Flexibility and Utility Features
Under the hood, the Palma 3 runs an octa-core processor paired with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. For users with massive digital libraries, storage can be expanded up to 2TB via a microSD card slot. Running Android 16 natively, the device allows users to download reading platforms, RSS readers, sync tools, and productivity apps directly through the Google Play Store without cumbersome workaround methods.
Beyond traditional reading, the device includes hardware targeted at document management and note-taking. A 16MP rear camera with an LED flash is integrated specifically for scanning physical documents, receipts, and book pages. Dual microphones enable speech-to-text transcription, turning verbal notes into readable text. A 3,950mAh battery powers the unit, providing multi-day endurance typical of E Ink devices.
Ecosystem Expansion: Note Air6 C and the Pocket-Sized Picco
Alongside the Palma 3, Onyx Boox revealed additional hardware catering to different reader preferences. For users needing a larger canvas, the company introduced the Note Air6 C. Equipped with a 10.3-inch Kaleido 3 color E Ink screen capable of rendering 4,096 colors, the tablet is powered by a 2.9 GHz processor and also runs Android 16, targeting graphic novel enthusiasts, PDF reviewers, and heavy note-takers.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Boox teased the Picco, an ultra-compact e-reader built around a 3.97-inch touchscreen paired with physical page-turn buttons. Unlike its Android-powered siblings, the Picco operates on a lightweight Linux-based operating system stripped down exclusively for core reading tasks. Featuring microSD expansion, the ultra-minimalist reader is scheduled for a broader release in late 2026.
Pricing and Availability
The Boox Palma 3 will be available in black and white color options for $320, which is $60 cheaper than the previous Boox Palma 2 Pro. The companion InkSense Plus active stylus is sold separately for $46. With its durable metal chassis, expanded storage capabilities, and Android 16 OS, the Palma 3 stands out as a versatile option for mobile readers looking to detach from traditional smartphone screens.
