Boox has released the Tappy, a page-turning remote for e-readers, following the launch of the Kobo Remote.
The Tappy is smaller than the Kobo Remote but less comfortable to hold. Its design resembles a miniature keyboard with two round buttons, inspired by retro typewriters. It measures approximately 2.5 inches in length and weighs 1.5 ounces. The device has a rechargeable battery charged via USB-C, unlike the Kobo Remote which uses replaceable batteries.
Features and Functionality
The Tappy offers three distinct modes:
- Reading – page forward/back or volume control
- Multimedia – skip tracks in music/podcast apps
- Browsing – scroll up/down on webpages or social media
Users switch modes by pressing both buttons for about five seconds, indicated by a flashing green LED. A pop-up notification on Boox devices shows the current mode.
Pairing involves powering on, entering pairing mode by holding both buttons for two seconds until a blue LED flashes, and connecting via Bluetooth settings. The device reconnects automatically on subsequent power-ons.
Compatibility
The Tappy works best with Boox e-readers and tablets running firmware V4.2 or later (e.g., Boox Palma 2 Pro). It is also compatible with other Android devices, iPhones, and iPads, but with limited functionality. On non-Boox devices, it lacks mode notifications.
Supported platforms according to Good e-Reader include e-readers from Pocketbook and BigMe. It did not work with Kobo or Kindle devices. Functionality in Kobo and Kindle Android apps is supported, but not in iOS or iPadOS versions.
Price and Availability
The Tappy costs $29.99, the same price as the Kobo Remote. It is available in olive green and bright orange glossy finishes.