Relax, Social Media Addicts – TCL's Anti-Brainrot Phone Has Arrived

As smartphones become integral parts of our lives, tech companies are increasingly integrating features to promote user wellbeing. Notably, HMD Global, the manufacturer behind Nokia, promotes its feature phones ('dumbphones') as a way to lessen social media engagement, while Honor has released devices equipped with eye protection technology.

Introducing TCL's Latest Models

TCL aims to combine both concepts in its new 50 Nxtpaper 5G and 50 Pro Nxtpaper 5G, unveiled at the IFA on September 5. These phones are equipped with 6.8-inch 1080 x 2640 anti-glare displays that adapt to lighting conditions and feature a 120Hz refresh rate to minimize blue light exposure. A unique feature, called the "Nxtpaper Key," allows users to toggle between full-color epaper and Max Ink mode, akin to Kindle's e-ink format. While the underlying technology's specifics are unclear, TCL's Max Ink Mode aims to reduce social media app usage and notifications, encouraging users to focus on reading and other productive tasks.

Combating Digital Detriments

In light of recent discussions around terms like "brainrot" and "doomscrolling," TCL's strategy appears designed to appeal to consumers dissatisfied with excessive social media use. By incorporating the "Nxtpaper Key," TCL caters to those looking to curb their social media engagement while retaining other critical smartphone functionalities such as web browsing and navigation.

Impressive Specs and Features

Mindfulness doesn't mean compromising on specs. The 50 Nxtpaper 5G and 50 Pro Nxtpaper 5G feature advanced specs, including 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, a 108MP main camera, an 8MP front camera, and a 5,010mAh battery supporting 33W fast charging. The Pro version increases RAM to 16GB and storage to 512GB while upgrading the selfie camera to 32MP.

Global Availability

At present, the base 50 Nxtpaper model is exclusive to the EU. Meanwhile, the 50 Pro Nxtpaper 5G, priced at £279.99 (about $367 / AU$550), will launch in the UK, EU, and Latin America. There are no details on a broader global release. Both phones also include AI functionalities developed with Microsoft, such as translation, voice memo transcription, and text summarization.

Expanding the Lineup

These phones debut alongside the TCL Nxtpaper 14 tablet, featuring a 14.3-inch 2400 x 1600 display, also boasting Max Ink capabilities. It is priced at £399 (about $525 / AU$785). At this time, none of these products have confirmed release dates in the US or Australia, and the UK release date for the base 50 Nxtpaper remains unannounced. Stay tuned to our phones coverage for updates.

Earlier, SSP wrote about China's groundbreaking carbon nanotube TPU.