The Pocket-Sized E-Reader with Color and 5G Looks Like a Smartphone
377If you’ve ever felt that traditional e-readers are too big or boring, the Boox Palma 2 Pro might catch your eye. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket, but it’s not a phone. Instead, it’s a compact device packed with features that blur the line between a tablet and an e-reader.
This new version of Boox’s Palma series keeps the same pocket-friendly size but introduces some serious upgrades. It now sports a color screen and supports 5G mobile data, making it more versatile than ever. The first-generation Palma came out last year and was popular among readers who wanted a simple device for reading and some light app use without the distractions of a full smartphone. The second-generation model builds on that idea but adds more capabilities that could make it feel almost like a mini smartphone.
What’s New in the Boox Palma 2 Pro
The biggest change is the screen. Instead of the original monochrome display, the Palma 2 Pro has a 6.13-inch color E Ink Kaleido screen. This technology is similar to what Amazon uses in its Kindle ColorSoft. However, the Kindle’s screen is a bit larger at 7 inches and has thicker bezels. The Palma 2 Pro’s screen isn’t as vibrant or sharp as traditional screens like LCD or OLED, but it’s a big step forward for color E Ink.
The device still keeps its pocket-sized profile. It’s roughly the size and shape of a phone, making it easy to carry around. The screen resolution in monochrome mode is 824 × 1648, but when you switch to color, that drops to 412 × 824. So, while the color display is fun for comics and magazines, it’s not quite as crisp as your phone’s screen.
Another key upgrade is the addition of a SIM card slot. Don’t think of it as a way to make calls—this isn’t a phone. Instead, the slot lets the device connect to 5G networks, so you can access the internet even without Wi-Fi. This makes the Palma 2 Pro more independent and useful when you’re on the go.
Running Android and Accessing Apps
The Boox Palma 2 Pro runs Android 15 right out of the box. That’s a solid choice, especially since many Boox devices run older versions of Android. While there’s no official support for Google services, Boox has a workaround that allows users to install the Google Play Store and download apps. This means you can have access to a variety of reading apps, browsers, and other tools, making the device more flexible.
The device is priced at around $400 and is available for pre-order now. It’s expected to start shipping around mid-November. For anyone looking for a tiny device that can do a lot—read books, browse the web, and connect on 5G—the Boox Palma 2 Pro might be worth considering.
In the end, this little e-reader offers a unique mix of size, color, and connectivity. It’s not a replacement for a phone, but it’s close enough for many tasks and perfect for those who want a compact device that does more than just read.
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