A Minimalist Bluetooth Remote Designed for BOOX eReaders
Onyx BOOX has introduced Tappy, a compact two-button Bluetooth remote created to complement its line of eReaders and E Ink tablets. Instead of tapping the screen, users can turn pages, scroll, or control audio playback with a simple click, making it a practical Bluetooth remote eReader accessory. The device targets readers who prefer physical buttons or those who like to position their e-ink devices on stands for hands-free use—whether in bed, at the table, or on a treadmill. Tappy is compatible with recent BOOX models such as the Note Air5 C and Palma 2 Pro, along with other BOOX devices that support Bluetooth and run firmware version 4.2 or later. Positioned as part of the broader BOOX accessories ecosystem, Tappy brings back tactile interaction to modern, touch-centric e-paper devices without changing how users read or navigate content.
Three Modes for Reading, Browsing, and Listening
Tappy’s functionality is organized into three dedicated modes that focus on common e-ink device control scenarios. In Reading Mode, the two buttons are mapped to page forward and page back, mimicking traditional page-turn keys found on older eReaders. Browsing Mode reassigns the buttons for vertical navigation, letting users scroll up and down through websites or long-form articles without repeatedly reaching for the screen. For audio content, Listening Mode turns Tappy into a basic media controller, allowing listeners to skip to the next track or return to the previous one. This mode-based approach keeps the interface simple, while offering enough flexibility to cover everyday tasks on BOOX devices. The result is a streamlined Tappy remote experience that caters to readers, web surfers, and audiobook or music listeners who value a physical control option.
Beyond BOOX: A Tiny Remote for Phones, Tablets, and PCs
Although Tappy is marketed as a BOOX accessory, its simple two-button design and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity make it useful beyond e-ink readers. Paired with compatible phones, tablets, or PCs, it can act as a minimalist controller for tasks such as advancing slides in a presentation or navigating documents. With a wireless range of nearly 33 feet, users can stay comfortably away from their devices while retaining basic control. The Tappy remote includes a USB Type-C port to recharge its built-in 95 mAh lithium-ion battery, which Onyx BOOX says can last for weeks on a single charge. An LED indicator communicates pairing status, mode changes, and low-battery alerts. This combination of long battery life, standard charging, and broad Bluetooth compatibility helps Tappy appeal to anyone seeking a compact, no-frills remote for everyday digital workflows.
Playful Design, Replaceable Keycaps, and Color Options
Tappy’s design sets it apart from many other Bluetooth remote eReader accessories. Measuring just 43 x 37 x 25 mm and weighing about 29 grams, it resembles a miniature two-key typewriter more than a conventional remote. Onyx BOOX ships the device with whimsical X and O keycaps installed, plus extra caps featuring a heart and a coffee mug icon. While these symbols are not descriptive of specific functions, the removable keycaps allow for customization and open the door to future replacements if the labels fade. This design choice also hints at potential personalization for users who enjoy tailoring their setups. Tappy is available in green and orange finishes, with availability differing by sales channel, giving users some aesthetic choice to match or contrast their existing e-ink devices and accessories.
Hands-Free Comfort for E-Ink Readers Who Miss Buttons
Tappy arrives in a landscape where many modern eReaders have abandoned physical buttons in favor of clean, touch-only designs. For readers who miss the tactile feedback of dedicated page-turn keys, the Tappy remote offers a convenient compromise: full-screen e-ink displays paired with simple, physical control. It can be especially helpful when a device is propped up on a stand, such as reading in bed or multitasking at a desk, where reaching out to tap the screen repeatedly can be awkward. By enabling hands-free navigation and audio control, Tappy helps reduce smudges on E Ink screens and minimizes interruptions to reading flow. Positioned alongside other BOOX accessories, this compact remote reflects a growing trend toward giving e-ink users more flexible and ergonomic ways to interact with their devices.