In an era where smartphone screens dominate our daily lives, eye strain and digital fatigue have become pervasive issues. Enter the TCL 60 XE Nxtpaper 5G—a $250 Android device that dares to innovate where others cut corners. Its secret weapon? TCL's Nxtpaper 3.0 technology, a matte-coated display that mimics the texture and low-glare properties of paper, directly addressing the visual toll of endless scrolling.


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The Display Revolution: More Than a Gimmick

At first glance, the Nxtpaper screen is a revelation. Unlike conventional glossy panels, its matte finish drastically reduces blue light, eliminates fingerprints, and minimizes reflections—a boon for prolonged reading or coding sessions. Underneath lies a 1080p, 120Hz LCD, but the coating transforms the experience. As ZDNET's Jason Howell notes, "On-screen content looks a bit like E-ink depending on the mode," offering respite for weary eyes. The phone features a dedicated physical 'Nxtpaper Key' to toggle between modes:
- Color Paper Mode: Muted colors retain full Android functionality, ideal for daily use.
- Ink Paper Mode: Strips interfaces to grayscale for minimal distraction.
- Max Ink Mode: Limits apps and background processes, extending battery life to over a week—perfect for digital detoxes.


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Yet, this innovation has trade-offs. The matte layer struggles in direct sunlight, washing out content. Howell observed it was "often unusable" outdoors, a significant limitation for mobile professionals.

Performance and Compromises

Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chip and 8GB RAM, the 60 XE handles basics like messaging and web browsing adequately but falters under load. Apps launch with noticeable lag, and the camera—a 50MP main sensor—produces "soft, grainy images" in low light. Battery life shines, however, with its 5,010mAh cell easily lasting a day. Slow 18W charging and a wobbling, off-center camera module underscore its budget nature.

Software support is equally sparse: just one OS upgrade to Android 16 and two years of patches. For developers, this short lifecycle poses a risk for long-term app compatibility and security—a critical consideration in enterprise environments.

Why This Matters for Tech

TCL's approach signals a growing trend toward 'humane tech'—devices that prioritize user well-being over sheer specs. While rivals like the CMF Phone 2 Pro offer better performance, the Nxtpaper 5G carves a niche by solving a real pain point: screen-induced eye fatigue. It’s a reminder that innovation in budget segments can still challenge industry norms, even if execution isn’t flawless. For developers and tech leaders, this phone exemplifies how display technology could evolve to support healthier digital habits, potentially influencing future UI/UX design in more devices.

Source: ZDNET review by Jason Howell