Boox is developing the Picco, a compact e-reader intended to compete with Xteink’s phone-sized devices. It matters because it would broaden competition in the emerging market for highly portable e-paper readers, although Boox has not confirmed whether its model will match Xteink’s magnetic phone attachment feature.

The Picco is expected to have a 3.97-inch front-lit monochrome e-paper screen, an SD card slot for expandable storage, and physical buttons. Boox says it will form part of a new Tile range at an accessible price, but has not disclosed specifications, release timing or a price; Xteink’s comparable X4 Pro costs $99. Reports suggest the Picco may use a stripped-back interface with reading, music and podcast apps, unlike Boox’s Android-based Palma.