TCL P80 Ultra Brings Physical E-Ink Toggle to Smartphone
TCL has introduced a smartphone that lets users switch between a vibrant AMOLED screen and a low-glare paper-like mode using a physical slider. The device targets readers seeking comfort without sacrificing modern performance.
TCL has released the P80 Ultra, a device centered on a display technology called NxtPaper. According to GSMArena, the phone features a physical slider on the side that allows users to switch between a high-brightness AMOLED mode and a sepia-toned, low-glare mode similar to e-ink readers. This hardware toggle distinguishes it from software-based eye comfort settings found in most competitors.
The device is positioned in the mid-to-high range, priced at €550 for the 256GB model and €600 for the 512GB version. It includes a premium braided charging cable and a textured protective case in the box. The phone measures 8.3mm thick and houses a 5,800mAh battery, trading some thinness for longer battery life and a matte finish across the back and sides.
Display modes offer distinct trade-offs
In standard AMOLED mode, the 6.83-inch screen reaches 3,200 nits of brightness with a 120Hz refresh rate and 10-bit color depth. However, the anti-glare coating used for the paper mode reduces viewing angles compared to conventional glossy screens. Users must choose between maximum vividness and reduced eye strain, as the matte surface is not as reflective but loses some contrast from the side.
The NxtPaper mode shifts the screen to a light sepia tone, desaturating most colors to mimic a paper-like experience. This mode is designed to reduce blue light and glare, making it suitable for extended reading sessions. While colors are largely muted, slight hints of red remain, providing a visual distinction from traditional black-and-white e-ink displays.
Max Ink mode restricts functionality
The P80 Ultra includes a Max Ink mode that acts as a digital detox tool. It limits the home screen to a few basic apps, suppresses most notifications except for calls and texts, and puts background apps to sleep. This mode significantly extends battery life, offering up to seven days of immersive reading time.
A preloaded reader app offers access to 500 free books in various languages. However, the app lacks search and sorting features, which limits its utility for larger libraries. It does include AI-powered tools that can read books aloud or simulate podcasts from the text, though the practical use of these features remains questionable for many users.
Premium build with tactile controls
The phone features a matte finish on all surfaces, including the display, which provides a smoother tactile experience than glossy glass. The physical slider is a key differentiator, allowing instant switching between modes without navigating through software menus. The device feels substantial in the hand due to its size and thickness, but the build quality compensates with a premium aesthetic.
When in NxtPaper mode, the phone unlocks automatically when lifted, a convenience feature that eliminates the need for button presses or screen taps. However, it does not automatically lock when set down, which could lead to accidental activations. The overall experience is described as uncompromised, balancing the unique display technology with a smooth, high-end user interface.
