E-ink cases for smartphones aren’t exactly new—they’ve been around since 2013. But one thing’s been missing in the e-ink smartphone case world: color. Oaxis may have been the main player for a while, but even they haven’t cracked the color code yet. Enter Reinkstone, a company that’s here to brighten things up—literally.
Reinkstone is offering e-ink cases for select iPhone models and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Now, it’s not like you’ll be reading your entire eBook collection on it like with some Oaxis cases. But let’s face it, that’s not why you’d want it anyway. With Reinkstone’s trading card-sized screen, you can show off your photos in glorious color, a feature that e-ink cases have sorely lacked.
Back in 2023, Reinkstone launched the world’s first NFC 3-color e-ink phone case, followed by an even more impressive 4-color version in 2024. Two months ago, they took things up a notch by bringing their colorful tech to the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra with the Reink Case Knight. Meanwhile, their Reink Case C1 for iPhone is still holding the title of the world’s first NFC 4-color e-ink phone case.
Both models let you flex by changing the image on the e-ink screen through a companion app. But here’s the kicker: they work without batteries. That’s right—these cases draw data and power from NFC technology, so no need to stress about keeping your case charged. You know, that’s kinda like magic.
The display isn’t just for those who want to flaunt their most Instagrammable moments, though. It can show useful things like your airline tickets, to-do lists, and more. But, if vanity is your thing, rest assured it can also display your social media QR code, ready for anyone passing by to follow you on the spot.
The Reink Case C1 even steps up the functionality with a bracket, letting you prop up your phone at multiple angles. And because this is Reinkstone, we have to mention the patented motherboard featuring a multi-layer flexible PCB that promises durability. The case also sports a specially designed NFC antenna that’s efficient and stable, so you can still pay for your overpriced coffee or hop on the subway without any NFC interference.
Other notables include a Bayer TPU shell, an explosion-proof tempered glass for the e-ink display, non-magnetic wireless charging, and the ability to handle drops from heights up to 1.8 meters. But all that tech-savvy glamor doesn’t come cheap.
Normally, the Reink Case C1 for iPhone and the Reink Case Knight for the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra would set you back almost US$100 a pop. Luckily for you, there’s a sale. You can snag the C1 for US$74.90 and the Knight for US$79.90—at least for now. How long these prices will stick around? Who knows, so grab one while you can.
Images: Reinkstone.