As the literary world converged on BookCon 2026, attendees were not just eager to meet their favorite authors and score free books, but also to showcase their latest tech gadgets and gear. With the event selling out fast, fans returned in droves, and the exhibition floor was abuzz with the latest bookish tech trends. As we explored the floor, we spotted a range of innovative gadgets that caught our attention, from e-readers to handheld fans, and everything in between.
10 Bookish Gadgets and Tech Trends We Saw at BookCon 2026
The Rise of E-Readers: Rakuten Kobo Takes Center Stage
While Kindle cases were a popular item to score, Kindle devices were noticeably absent from the exhibition floor. Instead, Rakuten Kobo was the only e-reader making an appearance, showcasing its color e-readers, including the Kobo Clara and Kobo Libra. We’ve tested both brands at Mashable and love Kobo’s color e-readers, which offer a more immersive reading experience. The Kobo Remote, launched by Rakuten, is also a game-changer, allowing users to control their e-readers from a distance. With the rise of e-readers, it’s clear that physical books are not the only way to enjoy literature.
Interestingly, a recent survey by the Association of American Publishers found that e-book sales have been steadily increasing since 2014, with about 4.2 million e-books sold in the United States alone in 2025. This trend is likely to continue, as e-readers become more accessible and affordable.
Author Clock: A Literary Twist on Time-Telling
Also on the floor at BookCon was the Author Clock, a digital device that shows you the time with a literary twist. For every single minute, the clock displays a literary quote that features the time. It’s perfect for literary enthusiasts – whether that be you or a friend. The brand recently launched a new device for weather forecasts, too. The Author Forecast connects to WiFi to detect your local weather and then reflect it with a literary passage on the device.
As a book lover, there’s something endearing about the idea of time-telling through literature. It’s a clever way to make the mundane task of checking the time more engaging and meaningful. The Author Clock is a great example of how technology can be used to enhance our love of literature.
Hands-On Tech: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and Mic Mini
While DJI products weren’t on display, they were in the hands of attendees on the show floor. We spotted the DJI Osmo camera everywhere, similar to what we experienced at VidCon. Fans were using it to capture the event, so we’re expecting to see lots of BookCon vlogs on BookTok soon. Plus, we also saw attendees using the DJI Mic Mini, which could easily be clipped on to wear around the event.
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a versatile camera that can be used for a variety of purposes, from capturing events to creating content for social media. Its compact design and user-friendly interface make it an ideal choice for book lovers who want to document their literary adventures.
Staying Cool: Handheld Fans Take Center Stage
At this point, personal fans are a staple at conventions. At 9 a.m. on Saturday, when just VIP and the press were admitted to the exhibition floor, things were already steamy, and people had broken out their handheld fans. While we didn’t spot Shark’s new ChillPill or Dyson’s new HushJet at BookCon, the cheap handheld fans you can score on Amazon are still the most popular choice.
As the summer months approach, it’s essential to stay cool and hydrated, especially in crowded spaces like conventions. Handheld fans are a simple yet effective way to keep yourself cool, and they’re often affordable and portable.
Genius Gadgets: Collapsible Stools and Folding Utility Carts
I saw dozens of attendees with colorful disks strapped crossbody throughout the event, and when I asked one person what it was, my jaw dropped as they revealed a collapsible stool – a genius way to have a seat with you while waiting in long lines. The MacoPro folding utility cart was the most popular option, and it’s easy to see why. With its flat top, it’s basically a portable chair, too.
As anyone who’s attended a convention can attest, waiting in lines can be a real challenge. That’s why gadgets like collapsible stools and folding utility carts are so essential. They make it possible to stay comfortable and organized, even in the midst of chaos.
Free Books and More: The Name of the Game at BookCon
The name of the game at BookCon was free books. Publishers and authors were doling out free advanced copies of books. Attendees came prepared to take home all the free things with folding utility carts. By far, the MacoPro folding utility cart was the most popular option.
The love of books is a universal language, and BookCon is a celebration of that love. Whether you’re an author, publisher, or simply a book lover, there’s something for everyone at BookCon. And with the rise of e-readers and other bookish tech trends, it’s clear that the future of literature is bright and exciting.
Practical Advice: How to Get the Most Out of BookCon
Plan Ahead: Research the Schedule and Exhibitors
Before attending BookCon, make sure to research the schedule and exhibitors. This will help you prioritize which panels and events to attend, and which booths to visit. You can also use this information to plan your day and make the most of your time.
As a seasoned convention-goer, it’s essential to be prepared. By researching the schedule and exhibitors, you can avoid wasting time and make the most of your experience.
Stay Organized: Bring a Backpack and a List
Bring a backpack or bag to carry all your essentials, including water, snacks, and any gadgets you might need. It’s also a good idea to bring a list of the books you want to pick up and the authors you want to meet. This will help you stay focused and avoid missing out on anything important.
As anyone who’s attended a convention can attest, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why staying organized is crucial. By bringing a backpack and a list, you can stay on top of things and make the most of your experience.
Take Breaks: Stay Cool and Hydrated
Finally, don’t forget to take breaks and stay cool and hydrated. Whether you’re waiting in line or attending a panel, it’s essential to take a moment to rest and recharge. Bring a water bottle and snacks, and take a few minutes to sit down and relax.
As the summer months approach, it’s essential to prioritize your health and well-being. By taking breaks and staying cool and hydrated, you can avoid exhaustion and make the most of your experience at BookCon.
Conclusion
BookCon 2026 was a resounding success, with attendees returning in droves to celebrate their love of literature. From e-readers to handheld fans, and everything in between, the exhibition floor was abuzz with the latest bookish tech trends. Whether you’re a seasoned convention-goer or a book lover, there’s something for everyone at BookCon. So mark your calendars for next year’s event and get ready to experience the future of literature.
