We recently received a set of smart e‑ink display magnets from VidaBay, and after spending some time with them, we can say this is a fun and intriguing take on personal display tech - though not without a few quirks.
The product itself makes an excellent first impression. These are thin, stylish magnets with a nice feel, available in several colors that make them visually appealing right out of the box. They are clearly designed with aesthetics in mind, and they fit nicely into modern home or office environments.
Each magnet integrates a small color e‑ink display. As expected from e‑ink technology, once an image is uploaded, it remains visible without consuming power. This is a major advantage and makes the devices ideal for static content like photos, notes, or reminders. Impressively, the magnets are completely battery‑free, which adds to their convenience and eco-friendly appeal.
Uploading images is handled through a companion mobile application. The app is simple and straightforward, making it easy to select and send images to the magnets without much of a learning curve. When it works, the process feels almost seamless and adds to the overall charm of the product.
However, the experience is not always as smooth as we would like. Image uploads can take some time, and in some cases, they fail entirely. The positioning of the phone is critical - you need to place it very precisely against the magnet for the transfer to work, and hold it in place until it is done. This can be frustrating.
Compatibility is another limitation. The system appears to work best with iPhones, while Android support is less consistent. Additionally, users will likely need to remove their phone case to ensure a reliable connection, which adds an extra step that may discourage frequent use.
Overall, these e‑ink magnets are a neat and creative product with a lot of appeal. They combine good design, the unique advantages of e‑ink displays, and a battery‑free setup into a package that is both practical and fun. At the same time, the somewhat finicky upload process and limited device compatibility hold them back from being a completely seamless experience.
With some improvements - particularly around connectivity and ease of use - this could become a fun product in the growing e‑ink gadget space. You can order the magnets from Amazon.com starting at $29.99 for a single unit, or directly from VidaBay.