Aura’s impressive e-ink photo frame doesn’t even look digital

In the realm of gifts, digital photo frames have long held the title of cliché, often disappointing in their execution. However, Aura has revolutionized this concept with its stunning Aura Ink frame, which utilizes e-ink technology to deliver a display that transcends the typical digital aesthetic. Digital frames are appealing in theory, allowing users to change displayed images like art on a wall. Yet, many devices fall short, presenting bulky designs and the hassle of tangled cords. This was a challenge the founders of Aura considered a decade ago, but only recently has color e-ink become viable for use in a digital frame. "E-ink is definitely next level," says co-founder and CTO Eric Jensen, highlighting the frame's ability to mystify viewers. "People often ask, ‘How did you print that picture so quickly?’" The e-ink technology, familiar from e-readers, allows for a comfortable viewing experience without the strain associated with traditional LED screens. Currently, the market has limited options for color e-ink displays, as manufacturers can produce only six colors: red, blue, green, yellow, white, and black. To overcome this limitation, Aura developed a dithering algorithm, blending these colors into patterns that create the illusion of smooth gradients, making family portraits and travel memories come to life. "Understanding color theory has been a learning curve for us," Jensen explains. The team has conducted extensive testing to ensure the frame meets user expectations in various environments and lighting conditions. Each Aura frame connects seamlessly to the Aura app, enabling users to upload images from their phones, email, iCloud, or Google Photos. The app is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible even for those who might not be tech-savvy. Additionally, it features a social component, allowing family members to share pictures within a shared library. Aura sent me both the 13.3-inch Ink frame and the more traditional 12-inch LED Aspen frame for comparison. Surprisingly, the LED version impressed me with its sleek design and anti-glare properties, elevating the overall aesthetic. The frames also feature a paper-like matting that tricks the eye into perceiving the display as a printed photograph, enhancing the overall experience. While the Ink frame offers a unique visual experience, the color accuracy may not satisfy every user. For instance, a seasoned film photographer noted some discrepancies in color balance, though as a digital photographer, I found the distinctive palette to be an intriguing artistic choice. The Ink frame is set to change images daily, typically during nighttime when users are less likely to notice. When manually adjusted via the app, the frame may appear to glitch momentarily as it processes images into its six-color format. Mounting the frame is straightforward—thanks to sturdy hardware provided by Aura—and it requires charging via USB-C approximately once a month. The display goes to sleep when not in use, conserving battery life. At a price point of $499, the Ink frame is certainly an investment, especially compared to the Aspen's $229. Despite minor color inconsistencies, which could be viewed as a stylistic feature, the Ink frame has found a cherished place on my wall. Considering the inherent limitations of e-ink technology, Aura has successfully crafted a remarkable product that stands out in the digital display market.