Why Don't More Smartphones Have This?

Marques Brownlee

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

Introduction to TCL 40 SE

0:00 - 28 sec

The video introduces the TCL 40 SE, a budget Android phone with unassuming features except for its unique screen.

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

The Screen's Unique Feature

0:28 - 50 sec

A detailed explanation of the TCL 40 SE's screen and its electronic paper display technology that reduces reflections.

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

Understanding the Next Paper Technology

1:17 - 51 sec

The video dives into what 'next paper' technology entails and how it differs from e-ink displays.

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

Advantages of the Matte Display

2:08 - 1 min, 38 sec

The chapter outlines the various benefits of the matte display of the TCL 40 SE.

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

Drawbacks of the Matte Screen

3:46 - 1 min, 33 sec

This chapter addresses the inherent disadvantages of the matte screen technology, explaining why it might not be widely adopted.

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

Niche Features and Market Acceptance

5:19 - 2 min, 47 sec

A discussion on niche features in smartphones and their acceptance in the market, with a focus on the TCL 40 SE's screen.

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.

More Marques Brownlee summaries

This Smartwatch is $69!

This Smartwatch is $69!

Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee

An in-depth review of the CMF smartwatch which retails for $69 and offers basic functionalities expected from a smartwatch.

Smartphone Awards 2023!

Smartphone Awards 2023!

Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee

A comprehensive review and award ceremony for the best and worst smartphones of 2023 across various categories.

The Worst Hot Takes in Tech

The Worst Hot Takes in Tech

Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee

A detailed analysis of various controversial opinions in the tech industry, focusing on the validity and implications of each take.

The Blind Smartphone Camera Test Winners!

The Blind Smartphone Camera Test Winners!

Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee

A detailed analysis of a blind smartphone camera test conducted with 20 smartphones, assessing daylight, low-light, and portrait mode photos.

Small Phones are Dead and We Killed Them

Small Phones are Dead and We Killed Them

Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee

An in-depth look at the demise of small flagship smartphones, the industry's trends towards larger phones, and the reasons behind the shift.