On July 21, manufacturer Xteink launched the X4 Pro, a black-and-white E Ink reader that continues the design of the previous X4 standard edition. Featuring a built-in magnetic back, it can attach to the back of an Apple iPhone, priced at $99 (approximately 671 RMB).
In terms of specifications, the device is available in black and white, weighs 72g, and measures 5.95mm thick. The front features a 4.3-inch 219 PPI black-and-white E Ink panel with an upgraded adjustable color temperature/brightness front reading light. The device includes 16GB of internal storage, with battery capacity upgraded to 1,100 mAh.
In terms of dimensions, the X4 Pro is nearly identical to its predecessor — the 111 x 69 x 5.95mm body is even smaller than an iPhone 13 mini, fitting effortlessly into any pocket. However, the row of physical buttons on the front has been replaced by a touchscreen, making the interaction logic more akin to a smartphone. A bigger change lies in the screen surface: the addition of a warm-color front light finally makes reading in dark environments possible without relying on external light sources, making it feasible to read a few pages of a sci-fi novel in bed before sleep.
The hardware redesign brings upgrades but also trade-offs. The device completely removes the universal USB-C port, with Xteink switching to a proprietary magnetic contact interface to achieve the ultra-thin 5.95mm body. This means users need to use a dedicated charging cable; however, the 72g reader can securely attach to the back of a compatible smartphone.
On the software side, the device runs an open system with no third-party restrictions. The interface supports wireless file transfer via the companion Vision app, and can also sync weather information and daily reading time statistics.
This new product is not intended to compete with full-featured Android tablets or large-screen Kindles. It is essentially a tool focused on reading DRM-free text content, with a very compact form factor. Existing users who rarely read in low-light conditions may continue using the older model; but for those who have been waiting for a built-in front light, there is now a compelling reason to upgrade to this new version of the niche portable reader.
