At BookCon 2026, Kindles were noticeably absent, while Rakuten’s Kobo was the sole e-reader brand present. This surprised many considering the popularity of e-readers, but it redirected excitement towards physical books. Kobo displayed models like the Clara and Libra, alongside their new e-reader remote. Additionally, gadgets such as the Author Clock, which uses literary quotes to display time, and various items like handheld fans, collapsible stools, and folding utility carts were featured. Attendees also used DJI Osmo cameras and Mic Minis for event coverage.
