A compact e‑ink reader that magnetically attaches to an iPhone is gaining attention as a potential antidote to the habit of doom‑scrolling. The Xteink X3, priced at around $80, snaps onto the back of a phone using MagSafe‑compatible magnets, turning a smartphone into a dual‑purpose device: a screen for social media and a dedicated, glare‑free page for reading. Early users report that the sleek 3.7‑inch display fits comfortably in a pocket or purse and can hold hundreds of e‑books, making it a convenient distraction while waiting in line or commuting.

Installation is straightforward but not entirely plug‑and‑play. The X3 ships with its own firmware, which many reviewers find functional yet clunky. An active community on Reddit has created an open‑source alternative called CrossPoint, which can be flashed onto the device using guided instructions and video tutorials. Unlike its larger predecessor, the X4, the X3 relies on a magnetic charging dock rather than a USB‑C port, a design choice that some users find inconvenient but manageable given the device’s modest power draw.

Content loading requires a bit of extra effort. The reader does not support Amazon Kindle files or protected library e‑books from services such as Libby, so users must source unprotected .epub files or convert web articles using free tools like Calibre. Public‑domain titles and independent authors’ works are readily available, and many owners appreciate the device’s “dumb” nature—no apps, no touchscreen, just a focused reading experience.

Overall, the Xteink X3 appears to encourage more reading by offering a low‑distraction alternative to the phone’s main screen. While it won’t automatically change habits, those who pair the device with a conscious effort to limit social‑media usage may find it a useful ally in reclaiming time for books and reducing digital fatigue.