Montblanc has expanded its reputation as a luxury writing instrument brand into the digital realm, unveiling the e-ink-based digital notebook, the "Digital Paper." Despite its hefty price tag of $905 (US), the product has been praised since its launch for pioneering a new category: the "luxury e-notebook."
The body is made of aluminum and features a leather pen bar on one side that attaches magnetically and can be wirelessly charged. The included stylus is inspired by Montblanc's iconic Meisterstück and features three interchangeable nibs that simulate the texture of paper when writing.
Technical specifications are relatively simple. It features a black-and-white e-ink display, a 3,740 mAh battery, and over 4,000 pressure levels. Via Wi-Fi, handwriting is automatically synced to Montblanc's dedicated app, which also supports handwriting recognition, text conversion, and secure encryption settings. It also includes PDF file annotation and ePub-based e-book annotation, and its minimalist interface allows users to focus on the writing itself.
Unlike most digital writing devices, which typically focus on functionality, this product features a luxurious user experience designed with Montblanc's signature craftsmanship and sensibility. The premium leather cover opens and closes magnetically, like a high-quality notebook, and its weight and balance in the hand are reminiscent of analog writing instruments.
Developed in collaboration with AKQA, this digital paper represents a new approach to digital writing, following in the footsteps of Montblanc's previous collaboration with Samsung, the stylus lineup, and the Augmented Paper lineup. While priced on the higher side, its design and materials blend seamlessly with high-end desks, coupled with its emotionally engaging writing experience, target a different demographic than the existing e-ink market.
Meanwhile, unlike competing e-ink devices like the reMarkable, BOOX, and Bigme, which emphasize practicality with various functions and color displays, Montblanc has chosen a strategy that prioritizes experience over functionality.
