Why Don't More Smartphones Have This?
Marques Brownlee
8 min, 7 sec
The video provides an in-depth analysis of the TCL 40 SE, focusing on its unique anti-reflective screen technology and its implications.
Summary
- The TCL 40 SE is a budget Android phone with a unique electronic paper display offering a reflection-free experience.
- It features a MediaTek G88 processor, 8GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and a standard set of cameras.
- The screen's anti-reflective properties come from textured glass and software adjustments, reducing eye strain but compromising brightness and sharpness.
- While the display has advantages like lower eye strain and stylus support, it is dimmer and less sharp compared to standard smartphone screens.
- The video concludes that while the technology is impressive, its trade-offs make it unlikely to be adopted widely in the smartphone market.
Chapter 1
The video introduces the TCL 40 SE, a budget Android phone with unassuming features except for its unique screen.
- The TCL 40 SE is presented as a budget Android phone priced at $200.
- It comes with a 5,000 mAh battery, a 50 MP main camera, a MediaTek G88 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage.
- The design is basic with a solid blue color and sparkles.
Chapter 2
A detailed explanation of the TCL 40 SE's screen and its electronic paper display technology that reduces reflections.
- The screen is a 6.78 inch, flat 1080p, 90Hz display that remarkably has no reflections, thanks to electronic paper display technology.
- TCL calls it 'next paper' which aims to deliver a paperlike visual experience without reflections, reducing eye strain.
Chapter 3
The video dives into what 'next paper' technology entails and how it differs from e-ink displays.
- The 'next paper' is not an e-ink display but an LCD with textured glass and software adjustments to mimic a paperlike display.
- The technology incorporates hardware layers and textured glass to create an anti-reflective effect and reduce blue light exposure.
Chapter 4
The chapter outlines the various benefits of the matte display of the TCL 40 SE.
- The matte display eliminates the need for special treatment to avoid reflections during filming.
- The texture of the glass provides a soft touch effect, enhancing the feel of the screen under the finger.
- The screen also supports a stylus made specifically for this type of display.
Chapter 5
This chapter addresses the inherent disadvantages of the matte screen technology, explaining why it might not be widely adopted.
- The multiple layers on the screen cut down on the sharpness and brightness, making the screen appear dim outdoors and soft indoors.
- The screen's maximum brightness is 450 nits with a 1500:1 contrast ratio, which is low compared to other smartphones.
- The softness of the display leads to less sharp and detailed images, which may not appeal to everyone.
Chapter 6
A discussion on niche features in smartphones and their acceptance in the market, with a focus on the TCL 40 SE's screen.
- The matte display is considered a niche feature that may not translate into significant sales due to the trade-offs involved.
- While the display offers benefits like reduced eye strain, many consumers may not accept the reduced brightness and sharpness.
- TCL's special software modes attempt to enhance the paperlike experience, but it remains a niche appeal feature.
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