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Amidst all the high-end gadgets that are on MWC 2023TCL Mobile went the opposite way by unveiling a number of new budget-friendly devices.
The most important of these is the TCL NXT PAPER 11 (opens in new tab), a tablet that is an all-rounder for work and entertainment thanks to its functions. It is equipped with the company’s own NXTPAPER 2.0 suite to improve screen quality. First, it boosts the brightness level by 150 percent compared to the previous version, enabling the 11-inch 2K display to run at 500 nits. If you use the device for a longer period of time, the built-in light sensor will ‘automatically [adjust the] color temperature” to protect your eyes. Anti-glare technology is also part of the package by “incorporating multi-layered screen protection” to reduce eye strain. As icing on the cake, TCL has added its AI Boost technology to further improve the video quality.
Functions of work
In terms of productivity features, the NXTPAPER 11’s screen has a “nano-chemicals [coating]”. When used alongside the T-pen stylus, the device provides “a realistic and smooth feel” like pen on paper, according to TCL. On the front is an 8MP wide-angle front camera that can record video up to 1080p (1920 x 1080 pixels) at 30 FPS. Add in a four-speaker, dual-mic setup and you might have a pretty decent work tablet.
The NXTPAPER 11 will be available for purchase from May 2023 for $249 in Dark Gray and Digital Lavender. It will launch across Europe first, but there are plans to release the tablet elsewhere later this year. If you don’t want to wait for the tablet to be released in your country, the TAB 11 will be out that same month for $179 (LTE version available from $209). It is very similar in features and performance; however, it is missing from NXTPAPER 2.0.
Growing smartphone line
In addition to the tablets, TCL also introduced three new 5G phones (opens in new tab) during MWC exclusive to North America. In total you have the TCL 40 X 5G, 40 XE 5G and the 40 XL, with the first two being fairly similar. They have the same MediaTek Dimensity 700 model processor, 6.56-inch HD Plus display (1600 x 900 pixels) with “NXTURBO screen enhancement software”, as well as 4 GB of RAM. The main differences are that the 40 X 5G has a better camera system and biometric security installed. The TCL 40 XL, on the other hand, comes with the weaker MediaTek G37 processor, but makes up for it with a larger 6.75-inch screen plus dual speakers for better audio.
As of June 2023, both the 40 X 5G and 40 XE 5G models will be available for $199 and $169, respectively. The 40XL will release a little earlier in May for $149.
Also check out TechRadar’s list of the best cheap tablets for 2023. It features more mainstream devices like the iPad 10.2 and Amazon’s Fire line.