Boox updates entry-level e-reader with stylus support and Android 11
The new device expands on the original Go 6 by adding InkSense Plus stylus compatibility and increasing RAM, while retaining access to the Google Play Store for third-party applications.
Boox has announced the Go 6 (Gen II), an updated iteration of its smallest e-reader that introduces stylus support and increased memory to its entry-level lineup. Priced at $199.99, the device is now available for preorder with shipments expected to commence on June 17. The update marks a significant functional shift from the original Go 6 model, which lacked handwriting capabilities and featured only 2GB of RAM.
The Go 6 (Gen II) retains the 6-inch, 300PPI E Ink display of its predecessor but upgrades the internal hardware to 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. Storage capacity can be further expanded via a microSD card. The device runs on Android 11, providing full access to the Google Play Store. This operating system choice allows users to install third-party applications, including ebook readers from competitors such as Amazon and Kobo, distinguishing it from dedicated e-readers that utilise proprietary software environments.
For users requiring handwriting functionality, the device supports the InkSense Plus stylus for note-taking, sketching, and document annotation. The stylus is not included in the base price and is sold separately for $45.99. Alternatively, Boox offers a bundle including both the e-reader and the stylus for $232.99. While the writing experience may not match the polish of premium devices like the Remarkable Paper Pro Move, the Android framework allows for a wider selection of note-taking applications and cross-platform syncing options.
In terms of connectivity and power, the Go 6 (Gen II) includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a screen light with colour temperature adjustments. It is powered by a 1,500mAh battery, which Boox states should last for weeks under typical reading conditions. However, battery life may vary significantly if the device is utilised for app-heavy tasks or gaming, given the open nature of the operating system.
The Go 6 (Gen II) is positioned at a higher price point than entry-level competitors such as the Amazon Kindle and the Kobo Clara BW, which also feature 6-inch screens. By combining e-ink display technology with a full Android experience and stylus support, Boox aims to offer a hybrid solution for consumers seeking both reading and digital notepad capabilities in a single device.
