Aura is thrilled to introduce its latest innovation, the $499 Ink frame, which features a groundbreaking 13-inch color e-paper display. This model stands out in Aura’s lineup, which predominantly consists of LCD-based frames. The technology behind the Ink frame is akin to that used in the popular Kindle Colorsoft e-reader, employing a sophisticated six-color ink system to create the illusion of millions of vibrant tones. One of the most significant advantages of this e-ink technology is that it allows the frame to operate cordless, making it perfect for displaying in various spaces within your home, such as the living room wall or a stairwell, where unsightly cords could detract from the overall aesthetic.
The company, founded by early Twitter employees, has long sought to utilize e-ink technology, but previous iterations were inadequate for displaying colorful smartphone photos. As advancements in e-ink systems have emerged, Aura has embraced this technology. The new Ink frame incorporates Spectra 6 technology, which provides six primary colors—white, black, red, yellow, green, and blue—enhancing saturation and contrast for a superior photo display experience.
To further improve the viewing experience, Aura has integrated a front light into the Ink frame, taking inspiration from the Kindle Paperwhite. This feature enhances contrast without overwhelming brightness; as co-founder and CTO Eric Jensen explained to TechCrunch, “It’s a very subtle light compared to an LCD. It’s maybe a sixth of the brightness of an LCD.” Users may not even realize the frame has a light until it turns off in a dark room.
Aura has also developed its proprietary dithering algorithm, which employs error diffusion techniques reminiscent of historic newspaper technology. Jensen notes, “We had to go back to the ancient dithering algorithms to figure out how to blend these dots to simulate other colors.” While the e-ink technology allows for a cordless design, the Ink frame does require occasional recharging, but Aura claims it can last up to three months on a single charge, making it a minor inconvenience.
To conserve power, the Ink frame utilizes motion sensors that automatically turn off the light when no one is present. Additionally, users can configure their own on/off schedules through the accompanying mobile app. The Ink frame boasts an upgraded aesthetic with a graphite-inspired bezel, a paper-textured mat, and a glass front, giving it the look and feel of a traditional photo frame, which is fitting considering its price point.
The Ink frame measures 13.3 inches with a resolution of 1600 x 1200 and a 4:3 aspect ratio. The package includes wall-mounting hardware, a stand, and a charging cord. Users can display photos in either portrait or landscape mode. Overall dimensions, including the frame, are 14.1″ x 11.4″ x 0.6″. The frame is equipped with a USB-C port, status light, and button controls to navigate through images. For those who prefer a seamless experience, the frame can update to the latest photo in a preconfigured rotation overnight, although initial photo loading may cause the screen to flash in a yellowish hue.
Aura has achieved impressive milestones, raising $26 million in 2022 after selling 1 million frames and boasting an app used by 3 million users. Recently, the company secured $60 million in growth capital investment from the LAGO Innovation Fund. Currently, Aura has sold “single-digit millions” of frames and is operating profitably, with its app facilitating the sharing of a billion photos to date.
Despite its founders’ roots in the tech world of Twitter, Aura is now focused on fostering private social networks that allow friends and family to connect and share photos through their app and devices. Jensen states, “We think that this space of sharing—connecting with loved ones—is really underserved. The marriage of a hardware device and that space works well as a business.”
As Aura continues to develop new products and considers enhancements to its app beyond frame management, the company remains cautious about solely focusing on a private photo network. Jensen emphasizes, “We sell a hardware product with a straightforward value proposition: no subscription, unlimited photos.” The Ink frame is available for purchase starting today on Aura’s website, marking a significant step forward in the evolution of digital photo frames.
