The compact Android e-reader, BOOX Palma, dons the guise of a phone while simultaneously boasting touch capabilities that mimic those of a phone. But is it truly a phone? The answer, my friend, is a resounding no, or perhaps not yet. For you see, the BOOX Palma takes the shape of a 6-inch e-reader, seamlessly adapting to the dimensions of a smartphone. This marvel from Onyx serves as the quintessential device for indulging in the written word or, perchance, engaging in the auditory delights of your favored podcast.
As astutely observed by 9to5Google, the BOOX Palma occupies an intriguing middle ground between tablet and phone. Although it may not tick all the boxes that define either category, it harbors tremendous potential, catering to a select group of users yearning for a lightweight contraption boasting an e-paper display and Android app compatibility.
Alas, it cannot be deemed a phone, for one striking feature eludes the grasp of the BOOX Palma — the absence of a SIM tray or eSIM compatibility, rendering it bereft of the cellular capabilities requisite to earn such a classification. Yet, fear not, for it does offer the delights of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, permitting the seamless functioning of beloved messaging apps such as WhatsApp. Moreover, this device arrives pre-loaded with Android 11 and a 16MP camera, poised to seize vivid snapshots (hopefully in color!).
The BOOX Palma towers at a mere 6.3 inches, adorned with a 6.13-inch, 824 x 1648 display. This captivating screen employs E Ink Carta 1200 technology, which breathes life into content through shades of black and white. This electronic paper marvel bestows upon us swifter response times, heightened contrast, and smoother viewing transitions, surpassing the capabilities of its predecessor.
Behold the BOOX Palma, bedecked with adjustable dual-tone frontlights, enabling users to tweak the color temperature to suit their whims and fancies.
Beneath its sleek façade, the BOOX Palma conceals a trove of 6GB RAM and 128GB internal storage. It thrives on a Qualcomm Advanced Octa-core CPU, fueled by a moderately sized 3,950 mAh battery. Owing to the e-ink display, this device boasts an exceptionally prolonged battery life, much to the delight of its users.
The BOOX Palma, a testament to its creators’ desire to cultivate a healthier relationship with technology, strives to foster “detachment.” E-ink displays excel in mitigating ocular strain, rendering them the epitome of perfection for bibliophiles, artists, and leisurely internet perusal. And with its compact dimensions, camera capabilities, and operating system, the BOOX Palma emerges as the prime choice for those seeking an alternative to Kindle or indeed, a smartphone.
