In a world dominated by bright, flickering screens, the quest for digital minimalism and reduced eye strain is more prevalent than ever. While technologies like OLED and LCD dazzle with color and speed, they often contribute to screen fatigue. Enter E-ink—the technology powering your favorite e-reader. Famous for its paper-like readability and minimal power draw, E-ink excels in bright sunlight without a backlight. But its slower refresh rate has largely confined it to dedicated devices like e-readers and note-taking tablets. Now, a new accessory aims to bring those benefits directly to your iPhone.
The Reetle SmartInk I is a novel device currently making waves on Kickstarter. Billed as a secondary display for your iPhone, it’s not a standalone gadget but an attachment that clips onto your phone like a protective case. The idea is simple: give users an instant, low-power, and easy-on-the-eyes screen for specific tasks without the distracting glare of their main display.
Designed for Simplicity and Compatibility
One of the SmartInk I’s biggest selling points is its straightforward setup. You simply attach it to your iPhone as you would a standard case, eliminating complex mounting systems or bulky hardware. The device is designed to be compatible with a wide range of recent models, from the iPhone 14 all the way to the latest iPhone 17. Connection is wireless, using either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth through a dedicated app, so there are no cumbersome cables to manage.
More Than Just an E-Book Reader
The 3.97-inch E-ink display, with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, might seem modest, but its purpose is highly specialized. While it's perfectly suited for reading e-books in any lighting condition, Reetle envisions it for a variety of quick-glance information. Think of displaying QR codes for event check-ins, boarding passes at the airport, or your daily to-do list without waking your main phone screen.
Where the "Smart" in SmartInk truly comes to life is with its integrated AI features. A dedicated button on the device allows you to record voice memos on the go. These recordings are then sent for AI-powered transcription and summarization, turning a rambling thought into a concise, actionable note.
Powering the device is a 300 mAh battery, which Reetle claims can last for up to 10 hours of typical use. For convenience, a wireless charger is included in the box, making it easy to top up the accessory without plugging in another cable.
Crowdfunding and Considerations
As with any innovative tech concept, there are important details to note. The Reetle SmartInk I is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter, with early bird prices starting at approximately $120. If the campaign is successful and production goes according to schedule, the company estimates that shipments will begin in February 2026.
It's crucial for potential backers to remember that this is the first Kickstarter project launched by the company Reetle. While the concept is promising, backing a crowdfunding project is not the same as a pre-order. There are inherent financial risks, including potential delays or the possibility that the product may not come to fruition as promised.
For those intrigued by the potential of a secondary E-ink display, the campaign page offers more in-depth technical specs and project updates. You can learn more and follow its funding progress on the official Kickstarter campaign page.
Will the Reetle SmartInk I become an essential tool for the digitally weary, or a niche product for a select few? Only time and a successful manufacturing run will tell. But one thing is certain: it’s a fascinating step towards giving our eyes—and our attention—a much-needed break.