Hi everyone,
I’d really like to get into e-readers and my preferred size would be 8"
But I can’t make up my mind. The one that interests me the most is the Boox Nova Air2, but since it runs Android and I heard Boox is does not offer android upgrades, I’m worried that I will be sitting on a brick after only a mere years aince Android moves so fast.
Is there a non-android e-reader like the Air2? Or are my concerns overblown?
Thank you
There aren’t a lot of non-Android options at 8". There’s the Kobo Sage, and the Pocketbook Inkpad Color. And that’s kind of it.
Nothing wrong with Android per se, but yeah, Boox generally doesn’t upgrade the OS, and only offers occasional feature/security updates. They also don’t allow rolling back firmware if there’s an issue.
I have a Boox Nova 2 that I bought in late 2020 and it’s stuck on Android 9. Given security concerns, I disable Google Play and generally keep it offline, as well as using Netguard. But personally, I’d avoid an Android based eReader unless it suits your specific purposes. The Nova 2 did for me at the time but I no longer need a lot of the functionality, I’m retiring it for a Paperwhite Signature soon.
Well, android 11 isn’t too old and they do update pretty often.
Kobo sage is is often named dropped
The libra 2 is really good too I hear. Though it’s 7in.
This seems like it could be releasing soon but no eta. https://www.e-readerstore.com.br/es/product-page/tab-mini-c
Well, android 11 isn’t too old
Hate to break it to you, but Android 11 released nearly three years ago (September 2020). Android 13 released 11 months ago and 14 is currently available for development betas.
For Android eReadders my personal recommendation is to use Netguard, keep your device offline and only go online when absolutely necessary. And after a point, you should disable Google Play and disconnect your account from it.
Personally, I’m retiring my Boox Nova 2 soon. It’s stuck on Android 9, and it’s less than three years old. Disappointing, but that’s a big security concern.
I’m not sure I understand your concern. If the alternative is getting an Android tablet or iPad then I agree that being locked in a previous version of the OS can be a disappointing experience, but the Boox devices are primarily e-readers which, since they run on Android, can also double as tablets for some tasks. When you compare it to the other e-ink alternatives, I’d say the Boox devices probably age the best, since even if the company drops support you can still find APKs around to make new uses. As for the basics - reading, taking notes, browsing occasionally - you’re already well suited, so no need to worry much about upgrades.
Mine is the original Nova Air and (as you can probably tell) I like it a lot. What other choices are you considering?
