PocketMage: Distraction-free handheld PDA with e-paper & physical keyboard

The PocketMage is a PDA designed with a clear focus on minimizing distractions. While traditional PDAs have largely been replaced by smartphones, these often come with constant interruptions just a tap away. The PocketMage instead concentrates on core productivity features. It is powered by an ESP32-S3 SoC, a microcontroller commonly used in development platforms, and does not run Android. Instead, it ships with a purpose-built operating system designed for simple and intuitive operation, supporting tasks such as note-taking and schedule management.

The device features a 3.1-inch e-paper display with a resolution of 320 × 240 pixels as its main screen, complemented by a secondary 1.8-inch OLED display with 256 × 32 pixels. Input is handled via a full QWERTY keyboard and a scroll control for quick navigation. With dimensions of 100 × 73 × 21.7 mm (3.97 x 2.87 x 0.85 inch), the device has a distinctly retro-inspired appearance while still offering modern connectivity options. The 1,200 mAh battery is charged via USB Type-C, and the ESP32-S3 provides integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. A microSD card slot allows for expandable storage, and external sensors or actuators can be connected via I2C, SPI, UART, and GPIO. The device is currently available through a CrowdSupply campaign starting at $185; as with any crowdfunding project, potential backers should consider the associated financial risks.