BookCon 2026 made a return after six years, swiftly selling out as fans gathered for the event. We were there, covering panels and interacting with authors and BookTok creators. Alongside the participants, we explored the exhibition area to see the gadgets on display. Despite the popularity of e-readers, there was an unexpected emphasis on physical books, with a clear lack of e-reader devices.

We also took note of the technology attendees utilized to document the event and the necessities for navigating BookCon. Here’s a glimpse at the book-themed tech and items we discovered at BookCon 2026.

Rakuten Kobo

Rakuten’s Kobo e-readers were the only e-readers featured at BookCon 2026. While cases for Kindle were common, Kindle devices were absent. Instead, Rakuten Kobo stood as the lone e-reader showcased. We’ve tested both brands and value Kobo’s color e-readers, such as the Kobo Clara and Kobo Libra, both highlighted at BookCon. Additionally, the Kobo Remote was presented at Rakuten’s booth, marking the launch of the brand’s own e-reader remote.

Author Clock

The Author Clock was also showcased, providing a digital device that tells time with literary quotes. Every minute, the clock presents a quote that includes the time, making it perfect for literary fans. The brand has also unveiled a new device for weather updates, the Author Forecast, which connects to WiFi to display local weather through literary excerpts.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and Mic Mini

Although not on display, DJI products were favored by attendees. The DJI Osmo camera was widely adopted for capturing the event, indicating a rise in BookCon vlogs on BookTok. Attendees also utilized the DJI Mic Mini, which easily clipped on for practicality.

Handheld fans

Personal fans have now become a convention essential. By 9 a.m. on Saturday, the exhibition area had already warmed up, leading attendees to utilize handheld fans. While Shark’s ChillPill and Dyson’s HushJet weren’t seen, affordable handheld fans from Amazon remained the favored choice.

Collapsible stools

BookCon participants arrived prepared, many carrying vibrant disks that unfolded into collapsible stools, offering a convenient seating solution while queuing.

Macopro folding utility cart

Free books were a highlight at BookCon, with publishers and authors handing out advanced copies. Attendees were equipped with folding utility carts, with the MacoPro folding utility cart being the most favored. Its flat top also functioned as a portable seat.