Before LG shuttered its smartphone business, it left a legacy of intriguing devices that pushed the boundaries of design. Among these was the LG V50 ThinQ Dual Screen, which featured a second screen integrated into a phone case, offering a fresh perspective on dual-screen technology. This innovative concept has now sparked the creation of the inkReader Duo, an imaginative e-reader that combines not one, but two E Ink displays, reminiscent of its LG predecessor.
The inkReader Duo borrows its inspiration not only from the V50 ThinQ but also from the G8X ThinQ Dual Screen. This device adds a contemporary twist, swapping out traditional screens for E Ink technology. Its main body mirrors a smartphone, and it sports a design akin to modern e-readers such as the BOOX Palma 2.
Designed by Mechanical Pixel, the inkReader Duo flaunts a 6.2-inch Carta 1300 E Ink display with 300 ppi resolution, not just on the main device, but also on the case accessory. The second screen seamlessly connects via pogo pins, and when not active, it serves as a space to showcase static images or notes. The design also features a 360-degree hinge, allowing the case to fold back completely, potentially resolving the bulkiness issue some dual-screen devices face.
Another intriguing feature of the inkReader Duo is its stylus support. While it’s still unclear if the stylus works on both screens, the capability to read on one and jot down notes on the other could be a game-changer for avid readers and note-takers alike.
Although the concept seems feasible in terms of hardware, the real challenge lies in developing software that can truly leverage the dual E Ink screens. While Amazon’s Kindle software may not meet the mark, an Android-based custom operating system could unpack the full potential of this creative design.
The inkReader Duo symbolizes an exciting fusion of old and new technologies to create something both familiar and novel. As we look to the future, innovations like the inkReader Duo remind us that there’s still room for creativity and evolution in the realm of portable digital devices.
