Xteink's newest e-reader introduces Android on a compact screen that easily attaches to your phone.

      Xteink has launched the S4, its most advanced e-reader to date, running on Android and priced around $50.

      E-readers don’t need to be large, costly, or confined to a single ecosystem. Xteink, a Chinese company subtly competing with Amazon and Kobo through its compact models, has just revealed its latest product.

      The Xteink S4 is a lightweight, small e-reader that operates on Android and can be magnetically attached to the back of your smartphone. It is currently available for pre-order in China for approximately $50, with an international launch anticipated in the coming months (via NotebookCheck).

      What makes the Xteink S4 noteworthy?

      The most significant update with the S4 is its operating system. Previous Xteink models like the X3 and X4 used a proprietary OS, which restricted their functionality. In contrast, the S4 runs on Android 11, albeit an older version, which allows for a broader selection of reading apps.

      You could potentially install apps like Kindle, Kobo, NOOK, Libby, Moon Reader, or FBReader. While Google Apps and Services haven’t been officially confirmed and some apps might require sideloading, this flexibility represents a considerable improvement over previous models.

      What’s new with its hardware?

      The S4 also features a front light for the first time in the Xteink product range, with adjustable color temperature for comfortable reading under varying lighting conditions.

      The 4.3-inch display remains the same size as that of the X4, but the battery capacity has more than doubled, increasing from 650mAh in earlier models to 1,400mAh. It also includes 2GB of RAM, 32GB of likely expandable storage, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB-C port.

      How does the Xteink S4 stack up against other e-readers?

      Measuring just 6.98mm in thickness and weighing 95 grams, the S4 is notably lighter and slimmer than Amazon's most affordable Kindle. The magnetic attachment allows it to attach seamlessly to the back of a smartphone, making it one of the most portable reading options currently available. While the specifications appear promising on paper, a complete assessment will be reserved until we can test the device ourselves.

      Manisha Priyadarshini is a writer focused on technology and entertainment, boasting over nine years of editorial experience.

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