Xteink X3: a mini e-reader that attaches to your iPhone

In a world where gadgets keep growing in size, Xteink has taken a different path with its ultra-compact X3 e-reader. While modern e-readers resemble A4 sheets, the X3 is closer in size to a business card and easily fits in a pocket.

Weighing just 58 grams — lighter than a chocolate bar — the 3.7-inch display is reminiscent of the “iPhone 4 era,” and the device’s dimensions of 98 × 64 × 5 mm make it almost invisible in any bag or pocket. The main innovation of the X3 is how it attaches and interacts with your smartphone.

Attach and read: magnetic Qi2 mounting

The X3 is not just a standalone reader — it’s an additional screen for your smartphone. Thanks to its magnetic system and Qi2 compatibility, it can be attached to the back of modern iPhones (including the iPhone 17) for uninterrupted reading, free from notification distractions. In this way, the X3 offers a compact “digital detox” right on your device.

Classic controls without a touchscreen

The developers removed the touchscreen entirely. All functions are handled via physical buttons, and a built-in gyroscope allows page-turning with a simple flick. The device also features an NFC chip and supports wireless file transfer from your smartphone.

Long battery life and memory expansion

Despite its tiny 650 mAh battery, the energy-efficient E-Ink display provides 10–14 days of usage when reading up to three hours per day. For storage, there’s a microSD slot (16 GB card included). The X3 is priced at $79 (about 3400 UAH) — affordable for a compact accessory that focuses on one function, but does it exceptionally well.