Xteink's tiny e-readers are getting access to free books through Libby
The Verge
β’2026-08-15T09:00:00-04:00
π° What Happened
Xteink's pocket-sized e-readers are getting access to free books through Libby. The CrossPoint Reader firmware is being updated with plug-ins that add support for ebooks from Libby, Kobo and other sources. The new plug-ins let Xteink devices reach DRM-protected ebooks. This fills a big gap for the small e-readers.
π The Backstory
One of the main tradeoffs with Xteink's small e-readers was the difficulty of getting ebooks onto them. On a Kindle or Kobo, users can download thousands of titles easily. Libby is the app millions of people use through their local library to borrow books and audiobooks for free. Adding Libby support makes these tiny devices much more useful as full e-readers rather than simple e-ink screens.
π― Why It Matters
Reading should not be limited to a few big brands. Access to library books through free apps saves readers money and expands what they can read on affordable devices.
Xteink's pocket-sized e-readers are getting access to free books through Libby. The CrossPoint Reader firmware is being updated with plug-ins that add support for ebooks from Libby, Kobo and other sources. The new plug-ins let Xteink devices reach DRM-protected ebooks. This fills a big gap for the small e-readers.
One of the main tradeoffs with Xteink's small e-readers was the difficulty of getting ebooks onto them. On a Kindle or Kobo, users can download thousands of titles easily. Libby is the app millions of people use through their local library to borrow books and audiobooks for free. Adding Libby support makes these tiny devices much more useful as full e-readers rather than simple e-ink screens.
Reading should not be limited to a few big brands. Access to library books through free apps saves readers money and expands what they can read on affordable devices.