In a world defined by screens, our protective iPhone cases have largely remained bulky, single-purpose accessories. They keep our phones safe, but they rarely enhance our daily productivity or address digital fatigue.
Enter the REETLE SmartInk I: a groundbreaking protective case that integrates a functional E-Ink display and AI-powered productivity tools.
This slim accessory transforms your iPhone into a smarter, more versatile E-Ink device, serving as a pocket AI recorder, a customizable widget hub, and a glare-free e-reader, all in one. REETLE SmartInk I goes beyond basic drop protection, offering utility, clarity, and focus for modern life.
Key Takeaways
- REETLE SmartInk I adds a high resolution E Ink screen to your iPhone, enabling glare free and distraction free reading anywhere.
- AI tools offer instant voice recording, transcription, summaries, to do extraction, and visual mind mapping for improved productivity.
- The case doubles as a customizable widget hub, displaying essential info like QR codes, travel details, and task lists at a glance.
- Its ultra slim, protective design integrates independent power, MagSafe charging, and compatibility with iPhone 14 and newer devices.
- Backers on Kickstarter can secure early bird pricing and gain access to a next generation productivity accessory built for focus and efficiency.
Reading Benefits of the REETLE SmartInk I E Ink Display
Many of us struggle with balancing heavy screen time for work and reading while trying to maintain battery life and avoid digital eye strain.
For business professionals and avid readers, carrying a separate e-reader like a Kindle is often inconvenient, and consuming documents on the bright, color-rich main screen of a smartphone contributes to eye fatigue.
The core vision of the REETLE SmartInk I was to solve this problem. By integrating a high-quality E-Ink display, the case provides an immediate, eye-friendly alternative for document review and leisurely reading.
REETLE SmartInk I Glare Free Reading for Any Environment
The REETLE SmartInk I features a 3.97-inch E-Ink touchscreen with a resolution of 480 x 800 (235 pixels-per-inch). E-Ink technology is known for providing a truly distraction-free, paper-like display experience.
Key reading benefits include:
- Glare-Free Clarity: The screen remains clear and highly readable even under bright sunlight, making it perfect for use outdoors, during commutes, or while standing in line.
- Reduced Eye Strain: By switching ebooks or work documents to the E-Ink display, users can avoid the harsh blue light and brightness associated with traditional smartphone screens.
- Distraction-Free Focus: The dedicated E-Ink display minimizes the temptation of notifications and random content, allowing you to focus completely on the text.
Users can upload their favorite e-books and articles, enjoying them without the usual digital interruptions.
The REETLE Name: Protection Meets Productivity
The genesis of the REETLE brand is deeply tied to its dual functionality. The startup explains that the moniker represents two fundamental aspects of the design.
The name REETLE combines:
- R(ead): Representing the e-ink display concept and the primary function as a reading device.
- (B)eetle: Symbolizing the tough, protective shell that wraps around your phone.
The concept originated from a team of business professionals and reading enthusiasts who found the traditional solutions, carrying a Kindle or sacrificing phone battery life, inconvenient.
Their solution was to merge reading capability (Read) with robust protection (Beetle) into one seamless, ultra-thin device.
AI Powered Productivity Tools Inside the REETLE SmartInk I
The REETLE SmartInk I integrates cutting-edge AI features, transforming the case from a passive display into an active, intelligent assistant. This suite of AI tools is designed to enhance efficiency for thinkers, creators, and business professionals.
One-Tap Voice Recording and Transcription
The case features a dedicated one-touch record button. This is perhaps one of the most powerful features: the ability to instantly capture voice notes, meetings, or ideas without complex setup.
The process is instant:
- Press the Record button on the case.
- The device starts capturing audio, no app, no cables, and no prior setup required.
- Once the audio file is generated, the system automatically transcribes the voice notes into text, with impressive accuracy.
This functionality holds potential for immediate transcription, even during a call while you are talking.
AI Summaries and To Do Extraction
Once the transcription is complete, the integrated AI takes over, dramatically speeding up the review process.
The AI-powered tools include:
- Concise Summaries: The AI processes the transcribed text to generate key points and concise summaries.
- Actionable To-Dos: Users can extract actionable to-do lists directly from the summarized content. These tasks can then be sent straight to the E-Ink screensaver for immediate reference.
- Visual Organization: The system includes a Mind Map feature, offering a clearer, step-by-step breakdown of the content for better comprehension and sharing.
It is worth noting that while the system offers robust AI features, REETLE provides several subscription tiers for heavy users.
The basic free package includes 50 minutes of transcription per month. Paid tiers, such as the basic business package (US$99.99/year), extend this allowance up to 150 minutes monthly.
Global Communication Support
For professionals and travelers who deal with international communication, the SmartInk I offers built-in translation capability. The system can translate across more than 100 languages, adding significant utility for global business and personal use.
Customizable Widgets on the REETLE SmartInk I E Ink Screen
A key benefit of the E-Ink screen is its ability to serve as a constant, non-draining information hub. By providing information at a glance, the SmartInk I reduces the need to constantly unlock your main iPhone screen, which can be a source of distraction.
Always On REETLE SmartInk I Widgets for Daily Essentials
The display can be customized to show mission-critical information at all times. Users can display a variety of essential widgets, including:
- To-do lists.
- Digital business cards.
- Travel documents.
- QR codes.
- Personalized information.
This means the information you need, like a flight booking QR code or a grocery list, is always instantly accessible on the back of your phone.
Personalized Screensavers With REETLE SmartInk I AI Styles
Beyond functional widgets, the SmartInk I allows for deep personalization. Users can utilize the iPhone camera to take a photograph and then send that image to the case to serve as a customized E-Ink wallpaper or screensaver.
The accompanying app even allows users to apply interesting AI styles, such as “Print” or “Sketch,” to their custom photos before sending them to the case.
Design, Durability, and Power System of the REETLE SmartInk I
The REETLE SmartInk I was engineered to merge powerful functionality with portability and protection. The team adopted advanced industry technologies and rigorous testing to ensure the case meets the demands of daily use.
Ultra Slim 4mm Engineering Inside the REETLE SmartInk I Case
Despite housing a display, battery, and AI technology, the SmartInk I maintains an impressive profile, measuring just 4mm thin.
This slim design was achieved through precise structural optimization, including reducing the battery thickness to under 1mm and the E-Ink module to 1.5mm.
The case is built for everyday protection:
- It features durable corner guards.
- The E-Ink display is protected by tempered glass.
- The overall structure provides solid drop protection while maintaining a sleek, minimalist aesthetic.
Independent Battery and MagSafe Charging on the REETLE SmartInk I
A major advantage of the SmartInk I is its independent power source. It is equipped with its own 300mAh dedicated battery. This ensures that the E-Ink features do not drain the iPhone’s main battery.
- Battery Life: The 300mAh battery is rated for up to 10 hours of continuous reading or recording or 7 days of standby time. Independent testing confirms that the standby time is genuinely reliable and close to the 10-hour continuous use claim.
- Charging: The case is compatible with MagSafe wireless charging.
- Syncing: Content, recordings, and settings sync seamlessly with the iPhone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
iPhone Compatibility Across Models With the REETLE SmartInk I
The Reetle SmartInk I is currently compatible with iPhone 14 series or later handsets. Although the prototype was developed on an iPhone 16 Pro, the design is planned to fit all models from the 14 series onwards, including the iPhone 17 series models and the Air.
Kickstarter Support Options for the REETLE SmartInk I
The REETLE SmartInk I is currently live on Kickstarter, where the Hong Kong startup is aiming to move the product from the prototyping phase into mass production.
This is an opportunity to support the development of a genuinely new category of smartphone accessory that prioritizes focused productivity.
Early Bird Savings and Rewards
By backing the project now, you can secure the SmartInk I at a significantly reduced price. Pledge levels currently start at around US$120, which represents a substantial 40% saving off the expected retail price. This early investment ensures you are among the first to receive this integrated productivity hub.
While this appears to be Reetle’s first product and first Kickstarter campaign, the team is committed to transparency and quality assurance.
Commitment to Quality and Delivery
REETLE guarantees a robust commitment to its backers:
- Warranty: Every SmartInk I comes with a 2-year warranty covering any faults or glitches in materials or workmanship, valid from the date of shipment.
- Shipment: The team guarantees 100% Shipment, ensuring every order is shipped promptly and efficiently.
- Transparency: REETLE is committed to providing transparent and timely updates on any potential risks or challenges that may arise during the development or delivery process.
If all goes according to the current plan, shipping is estimated to begin in February 2026.
Join the Productivity Revolution (CTA)
Stop settling for an ordinary case that only offers drop protection. The REETLE SmartInk I is designed for those who demand more utility, clarity, and focus from their everyday devices.
The integration of E-Ink reading, one-tap AI transcription, and smart widgets makes the SmartInk I a powerful smart assistant.
Ready to transform your iPhone into the ultimate E-Ink productivity hub?
Click here to visit the REETLE SmartInk I Kickstarter page and secure your early bird discount today!
