Boox teased the Picco, its take on the buzzy Xteink X4 e-reader, back in July, but provided almost no details. Now, thanks to some reporting out of IFA, we’ve got a bit more info, though sadly still no price. Unlike the Xteink devices, the Picco will not have magnets on the back for attaching to a phone. The 3.97-inch e-paper display, however, will be touchscreen, which The Verge’s Andrew Liszewski called a "welcome upgrade" on the X4 Pro. The Pic, has physical page-turn buttons, and they can be customized with different actions for short and long presses.

There’s apparently no onboard storage, and it relies entirely on a microSD card to hold books. But in addition to adding files to the card, you can transfer reading material to the Picco directly over USB-C (which the Xteink devices lack) or even WiFi from a companion app. The Picco won’t run Android, like Boox’s other devices, and will instead run a stripped-down, Linux-based OS. The company is including a handful of additional apps like a timer, a todo list, and a reading stats tracker. But, it’s unlikely that Boox will open its firmware like Xteink has, so it might be a less hackable and customizable device.

There’s still some things we don’t know, like price, battery life, Bluetooth support, or if it will include a player for audiobooks. But all should be revealed in November, when it’s expected to launch. The Verge’s reporting suggests that the Picco is positioned as a more compact and streamlined alternative to the Xteink X4, with a focus on simplicity and dedicated reading functionality. The absence of onboard storage and reliance on microSD cards may appeal to users who prefer to manage their digital library externally. The inclusion of USB-C and WiFi connectivity also sets it apart from some of its competitors, offering more flexibility in how users can access and transfer their content.

The Linux-based operating system is a notable departure from the Android-based systems used in Boox’s other devices. This choice may be aimed at providing a more lightweight and efficient experience, tailored specifically for reading. However, the lack of open firmware could be a drawback for users who enjoy customizing their devices. The Picco’s physical page-turn buttons, which can be customized, offer a tactile experience that some users may find preferable to touchscreen navigation. The absence of magnets for phone attachment is a design choice that may reflect a focus on the e-reader’s primary function rather than multi-device integration.

While the Picco’s features are promising, the lack of pricing and technical specifications such as battery life and Bluetooth support leaves some questions unanswered. The Verge’s reporting indicates that these details will be revealed closer to the November launch. The Picco’s potential to compete with the Xteink X4 and other e-readers will depend on how well it balances simplicity with functionality. As the e-reader market continues to evolve, the Picco’s success will hinge on its ability to meet the needs of dedicated readers while offering a unique and user-friendly experience.