Could a tiny magnetic e-reader cure your doomscrolling habit?

The Xteink X3 isn't a miracle cure for screen addiction, but it is a compelling tool for those willing to change their habits. At $69 on Amazon, the device is compact enough to sit flush against an iPhone, mimicking the footprint of a wallet or a Pop Socket. During two weeks of testing, the e-reader successfully diverted attention during idle moments—like waiting in line or commuting—where the instinct to open Instagram usually takes over. The hardware is refreshingly "dumb," lacking the touchscreens and notification pings that define modern mobile life.

However, the experience requires some technical patience. The stock firmware is clunky, leading many users to install the open-source alternative CrossPoint. Additionally, the device lacks native support for Libby or Amazon’s ecosystem, meaning you cannot easily sync library loans or purchased titles. Users must rely on side-loading public domain files or personal .epub collections via Wi-Fi. While the magnetic charging cable is an annoyance, the battery life is stellar, dropping only 4% after two weeks of consistent reading. It serves as a niche, tactile bridge between the convenience of a smartphone and the solitude of literature, provided you are willing to manage its limitations.