Boox launches Tappy, a compact Bluetooth remote for e-readers and mobile devices
Following the success of the Kobo Remote, Boox has released its own page-turning accessory designed for cross-platform use and media control.
Boox has released the Tappy, a compact Bluetooth remote priced at $29.99, designed to facilitate page-turning on e-readers and media control on smartphones. The device features two buttons with approximately a quarter-inch of travel and is compatible with Boox devices running V4.2 firmware or later, as well as Android phones and iPhones. The launch follows the popularity of the Kobo Remote, positioning the Tappy as a cross-platform alternative for users seeking physical controls for digital reading and media consumption.
The Tappy’s design draws inspiration from retro typewriters, described as a mashup of wireless remotes, fidget toys, and macro pads. It is available in glossy olive green and bright orange finishes, with four rubber feet on the underside to prevent sliding on desks. Unlike the ergonomic, streaming-dongle-like design of the Kobo Remote, the Tappy is smaller and more minimalist, resembling a miniature keyboard distilled to just two buttons. While not as comfortable to hold as its competitor, it is small enough to sit discreetly in the hand.
The remote operates in three modes: Reading, Multimedia, and Browsing. In Reading mode, the buttons turn pages forward and back or control volume outside of reading applications. Multimedia mode allows users to skip tracks in music, video, podcast, or audiobook apps, while Browsing mode enables scrolling through webpages or social media feeds. Mode switching is achieved by pressing both buttons for five seconds, which triggers a notification on connected Boox devices, though this feature is not available on non-Boox hardware.
Compatibility extends beyond Boox’s own ecosystem. The device functions effectively for reading, music, and web browsing on Android phones and iPhones. However, support for third-party apps such as Kobo and Kindle on Android is limited, and iOS compatibility lacks mode-switching notifications. Good e-Reader has tested compatibility with other e-readers such as Pocketboot and BigMe, though direct support for Kobo and Kindle devices was not confirmed in initial testing.
The Tappy is priced identically to the Kobo Remote at $29.99. While it offers more satisfying button travel and broader device support, users may need to manually verify the active mode on non-Boox devices due to the absence of persistent LED indicators or pop-up notifications. The device pairs via Bluetooth using a sliding metal power switch and holds both buttons for two seconds until a single LED flashes blue.
