TCL Launches Budget Phones with NXTPAPER Displays
TCL initially introduced NXTPAPER as a display technology exclusively for tablets and e-readers, but they have now contradicted themselves by launching a smartphone equipped with this technology. The newly unveiled TCL 40 NXTPAPER smartphones are affordable devices that prioritize “industry-leading eye comfort” while offering specifications that fall within the mid- to low-range category.
TCL has described NXTPAPER as “a combination of screen and paper,” noting that it offers 25 percent more contrast than typical E Ink displays and is 65 percent more efficient. Its latest version produces up to 500 nits of brightness and supposedly exceeds TÜV-certified blue light reduction levels. TCL says the technology can help protect your eye health while maintaining color accuracy and preventing screen yellowing. The color temperature of the screen is also automatically adjusted according to the time and environment.
Although TCL 40 NXTPAPER and TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G share a name, they have different models and specifications. The former has a 6.78-inch FHD+ NXTPAPER display and a punch-hole 32-megapixel (MP) front camera and a 50-megapixel rear camera. It has a mid-range MediaTek Helio G88 processor, 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, which can be expanded using a microSD card. Connectivity is limited to 4G and will cost €199 ($215) when it goes on sale in Europe in September 2023.
The TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G, as the name suggests, offers 5G connectivity, but other specs are strangely discounted. It has a smaller 6.5-inch HD+ (720 x 1612) notch-type display with an 8-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel rear camera. It uses MediaTek’s MT6833v processor (because it has 5G radios) and offers 6GB of RAM and 256GB of storage (also expandable). It will go on sale in Europe in October for €249 ($269). Both models will be released globally later in 2023.
Specifications aside, the NXTPAPER display is the distinguishing feature of these smartphones. Each has 5,000 mAh, and given the efficiency requirements, should last a long time on a charge. It remains to be seen if the display offers a solid smartphone experience.
